*+Making Christ the Center of Christmas+*
The Essence of Christmas
Idk about you but for me and my family... it's hard to make Christ the center of Christmas. But i'm going to change that this year. I'm going to try and learn how to change me and my family. Usually during Christmas i'm thinking about the fake Christmas magic, elfs, Santa, candy, cookies, and most of all presents! Not that those things aren't fun... it's just wrong to let the things of this world change the way Christmas is supposed to be about. It's about Jesus being born, not about the things of this world. In Romans 12:2-3 ESV version God says, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." So, to summarize this... God is saying do not be like the world (When he says the world he's referring to the people in it.)Then he says by testing with a transformed and renewed mind you may discern what is the will of God. If you believed that Jesus is real and you accepted him as your Lord and savior then this should be a good step to having a transformed and renewed mind. Then build a relationship like you would with a friend by praying and reading the bible. The way you talk to God is by praying and the way God talks to you is by reading you bible. It's important that you try your best to do this everyday. You can have your devotion at anytime of day but my favorite is the morning because it's quiet and nobody's awake lol. So at the end of the verse he basically gives an example of what the will of God is when your done testing with and transformed and renewed mind... he say's the will of God will be good and acceptable and perfect. So when your thinking about how you do things or in this case how you celebrate Christmas... use this method. 1. Reflect on what you do in life 2. Test it with a transformed and renewed mind 3. pray about it and read the bible 4. No matter how long it takes to find your answer don't give up because God is with you. Let's make Christmas about Jesus being born and not the other worldly things. Read the rest of this blog. It's made by AI but I read over it and it's all true. Love you all and have a Merry Christmas. Bonus!(The word Christmas means Christ's Mass which is the name for the celebration of Jesus our beloved Savior being born.)
The Nativity Story: A Biblical Account
The birth of Jesus is beautifully narrated in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 2, verses 6-7 (ESV): "And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." These verses encapsulate humility in the arrival of Christ. Despite His royal lineage, He was born in the simplest of circumstances, a manger, highlighting that God often works through humble beginnings.
Celebrating with Purpose
To celebrate Christmas as a Christian means to embrace the joy and awe of Christ's birth. It involves gathering with family and friends, sharing meals, and exchanging gifts—all while keeping the focus on Christ. This season is an opportunity to reflect on John 1:14 (ESV): "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." As we celebrate, we should take the time to express gratitude for God's gift through Jesus, and share the glowing light of His love with others.
Fostering Acts of Kindness
Christmas should also be a time for service and giving back to the community. It is essential as Christians to embody the spirit of generosity and kindness, following the example set by the shepherds who were the first to receive the message of Christ's birth. Luke 2:10-11 (ESV) tells us, "And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'" We, too, are called to share this good news with all those around us through our actions and words.
A Time for Reflection
Lastly, Christmas should also be a time for personal reflection on our faith journey. We are reminded of Isaiah 9:6 (ESV), which states, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Reflecting on these profound names of Jesus helps us understand His role in our lives: as a guide, protector, and source of everlasting peace. During this festive season, let us center our thoughts on the love that Christ embodies, fostering an atmosphere of worship and joy.