Answers

Q:

I know Christmas is still weeks away but already I'm dreading it. It's such a busy time for our family, and we always end up spending more than we should. I know you'll probably say we ought to keep Christ in Christmas, but how can we?


A:

Yes, now is a good time to remind ourselves to keep Christ in Christmas—and not only keep Him there but make Him its center.

After all, Christmas celebrates the most important event in human history: the moment when God stepped out of eternity into time. Think of it! At Christmas, the God who created the whole universe came down from heaven and became a baby—Jesus Christ. As the Bible says, at Christmas, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).

How can you make Christ the center of your Christmas? First, take time each day to pause as a family and thank God for sending His Son into the world. Also take advantage of other opportunities to focus on Him during these weeks (for example, through special concerts or programs in your church or community).

Take time now to plan for the coming weeks. Make a Christmas budget—and stick to it. Plan your time also. Remember: You can’t do everything, and if you try you’ll only end up frustrated. Don’t let the holiday season overwhelm you, but instead let your life be overwhelmed by the wonder of what Christ has done for us.