Celebrating Christ in Christmas: Finding the Sacred Amidst the Sparkle

Christmas is a season that glimmers with lights, jingles with bells, and buzzes with the excitement of shopping, parties, and endless festive activities. 

While the modern celebration of Christmas often feels like a whirlwind of commercialism, at its heart lies a sacred story: the birth of Jesus Christ, God’s gift to humanity. 

For Christians, finding ways to focus on this profound truth amidst the razzmatazz can transform the season into a deeply meaningful celebration.

Rediscover the Nativity Story

The story of Christ’s birth is the cornerstone of Christmas. Amidst the hustle and bustle, take time to revisit the biblical account of the nativity. Reading Luke 2:1-20 or Matthew 1:18-25 as a family or individually can re-centre the season on its true purpose. Reflecting on the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth—in a manger, surrounded by shepherds—reminds us that Christmas is about God’s love breaking into the world, not about material abundance.

Create Christ-Centred Traditions

One way to celebrate Christ during Christmas is by establishing traditions that highlight His significance. Here are some ideas:

Advent Practices: Use an Advent calendar or wreath to mark the days leading up to Christmas. Many Christian-themed Advent calendars include Bible verses or prayers, offering daily moments to focus on Jesus.

Nativity Displays: Set up a nativity scene in your home and use it as a teaching tool for children or a visual reminder for yourself.

Birthday Celebration for Jesus: Treat Christmas Day as a birthday party for Jesus, complete with a cake and a moment of gratitude for His gift of salvation.

Be Intentional About Giving

The commercialised side of Christmas often focuses on extravagant gifts, but Christians can reclaim the spirit of giving by mirroring God’s generosity. Consider:

Charitable Giving: Support causes that align with Christian values, such as feeding the hungry, supporting missionaries, or donating to local shelters.

Acts of Kindness: Encourage family members to perform small acts of kindness for neighbours, friends, or strangers.

Gifts with Meaning: Choose gifts that reflect your faith, such as Christian books, music, or handmade items that convey thoughtfulness.

Worship and Fellowship

Amidst the parties and shopping sprees, prioritise time for worship and fellowship. Attend church services, especially on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, to join with others in celebrating Christ’s birth. Many churches host special carol services or nativity plays that can serve as a spiritual highlight of the season.

Simplify to Amplify

The noise of the season can drown out its sacredness. Simplifying your celebrations can help amplify Christ’s message:

Limit Excess: Reduce the focus on extravagant decorations, food, or gifts. Instead, invest time and energy in relationships and spiritual reflection.

Quiet Time: Dedicate moments of stillness to prayer, meditation, or journaling about what Christmas means to you as a follower of Christ.

Share the Good News

Christmas provides a unique opportunity to share your faith. The season’s themes of hope, love, and joy resonate universally. Whether through conversations, Christmas cards with a gospel message, or inviting someone to a church service, sharing the story of Christ’s birth can be a gentle yet powerful way to witness to others.

While the modern Christmas season is often wrapped in commercialism and glitter, Christians can celebrate the birth of Christ by intentionally focusing on His presence. 

By rediscovering the nativity story, creating Christ-centred traditions, giving meaningfully, worshipping, simplifying, and sharing the Good News, we can experience the profound joy and peace that comes from celebrating Emmanuel—God with us. 

This Christmas, let’s unwrap the greatest gift of all and share its light with the world.

How to Ensure a More Christ-Based Christmas This Year

Christmas is often seen as a time for gift-giving, festive meals, and time spent with loved ones. While these traditions are wonderful, they can sometimes overshadow the true reason for the season—the birth of Jesus Christ. 

For Christians, Christmas is about celebrating the arrival of the Saviour, yet it’s easy to get caught up in the commercial aspects and lose sight of this deeper meaning.

If you’re looking to bring Christ back to the centre of your Christmas celebrations this year, here are some meaningful ways to refocus your festivities around faith:

1. Start with Prayer

One of the simplest yet most powerful ways to bring Christ into your Christmas is through prayer. Begin the festive season by praying as a family, asking God to help you focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Pray for gratitude, for love, and for the opportunity to share Christ’s message with others. Make prayer a part of your daily routine throughout December, whether it’s praying together at the dinner table, or during Advent readings.

On Christmas Day, take time to thank God for the gift of His Son before the celebrations begin. By setting aside this sacred time, you can start the day with a heart focused on Christ.

2. Read the Nativity Story

To truly understand the significance of Christmas, it’s important to revisit the story of Christ’s birth. Read the Nativity story from the Bible (Luke 2:1-20 or Matthew 1:18-25) either as part of your Advent celebrations or on Christmas morning. It can be a wonderful family tradition to gather together and read aloud the story of how Jesus came into the world.

For children, consider using a Nativity scene or storybook to help illustrate the events. Focusing on the humble beginnings of Jesus’ life reminds us that Christmas is about more than presents—it’s about God’s ultimate gift to humanity.

3. Attend Church Services

A Christ-based Christmas should involve worship, and attending church services is a central way to do this. Many churches hold special services throughout December, including Nativity plays, Advent services, and Christmas Eve or Christmas Day services. These gatherings offer a beautiful way to come together as a community to worship and reflect on the birth of Christ.

Make attending church a priority this year, and invite family or friends to join you. It’s a wonderful way to remember the spiritual aspect of the season and to celebrate Christ’s birth with others who share your faith.

4. Incorporate Advent Traditions

Advent is the period leading up to Christmas and is a time of anticipation and preparation for the coming of Christ. There are many Advent traditions you can incorporate into your Christmas season that help keep the focus on Jesus.

One popular tradition is using an Advent calendar, which marks the days leading up to Christmas. Instead of a typical calendar filled with chocolate, look for one that includes daily Bible verses or reflections on the Nativity story. This can be a meaningful way to countdown to Christmas while keeping Christ at the centre of your thoughts.

Lighting an Advent wreath is another tradition that symbolises the coming of the light of Christ into the world. Each candle has a special meaning, and lighting them each week is a powerful reminder of the hope, peace, love, and joy that Jesus brings.

5. Give in the Spirit of Christ

While giving and receiving gifts is a part of Christmas, it’s easy to get caught up in materialism. To have a Christ-based Christmas, shift the focus of giving to reflect the love and generosity of Jesus. Consider how you can give in a way that mirrors the compassion and selflessness Christ demonstrated throughout His life.

This could mean giving to those in need, whether through donations to charities, supporting a family struggling this Christmas, or volunteering your time to help the less fortunate. Jesus taught us to care for the poor and marginalised, and embracing this aspect of His teaching during the festive season helps us remember that Christmas is about love, kindness, and serving others.

6. Create Christ-Centred Traditions

Many of our Christmas traditions, like decorating the tree or exchanging gifts, are fun but don’t always reflect the religious nature of the holiday. Why not create some new traditions that bring a Christ-centred focus to your celebrations?

You could set up a Nativity scene in your home and place Jesus in the manger on Christmas morning as part of your celebration. Another idea is to have a birthday cake for Jesus as a fun way for children to understand that Christmas is about celebrating His birth. Singing traditional Christmas carols with religious significance, like “O Holy Night” or “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” can also help keep the focus on Christ.

7. Share the Good News

Christmas is the perfect time to share the message of Christ’s love with others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, inviting someone to church, or simply having a conversation about the true meaning of the season, take the opportunity to share your faith.

You could also send out Christmas cards that feature Bible verses or a message about the birth of Christ. In a season where so much attention is on gifts and decorations, sharing the Good News with others helps spread the light of Christ’s love.

8. Reflect on Christ’s Love

Amidst the busyness of Christmas, take time to reflect on the love of Christ and what His birth means for you personally. Set aside quiet moments during the day to think about the gift of salvation, the joy of knowing Christ, and the hope that His coming brings to the world. You could do this through Bible study, personal devotion, or simply spending time in quiet reflection.

By keeping your heart and mind focused on Jesus, you’ll find that the distractions of the season fade away, and you can truly experience the peace and joy that Christmas is meant to bring.

Conclusion

This year, make a conscious effort to have a more Christ-based Christmas by focusing on the spiritual significance of the season. Through prayer, worship, giving, and reflecting on the birth of Jesus, you can celebrate Christmas in a way that honours its true meaning. By bringing Christ back into your Christmas traditions, you’ll not only deepen your faith but also experience the joy and peace that comes from focusing on the greatest gift of all—the love of Christ.

The Disturbing Reality: 2,025 Years After Christ, His Followers Are Still Being Persecuted. What can be done?

As we approach another Christmas, it is a time for reflection, celebration, and the anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. 

Yet, in the pre-Christmas period, while many of us prepare for festivities, millions of Christians across the globe, especially in regions like Africa, are facing persecution, homelessness, violence, and even martyrdom. 

This disturbing reality raises a sobering question: How is it that 2,025 years after Jesus was born, lived, and died for us, His followers continue to suffer so deeply for their faith?

A Disturbing Continuation of History

Persecution of Christians is not a new phenomenon. Jesus Himself warned His disciples that they would face trials for following Him: "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you" (John 15:20). Yet, one might have hoped that after two millennia, the world would have progressed beyond the brutal intolerance that marks the treatment of Christians in some parts of the world today.

The plight of Christians in Africa is particularly heart-wrenching. From Nigeria to the Central African Republic, countless Christians have faced unimaginable violence. Islamist extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated factions have carried out barbaric attacks, specifically targeting Christian communities. Churches have been burned, villages destroyed, and believers abducted or killed—sometimes in front of their families.

What makes this even more tragic is the relatively muted response from the international community. In an age where human rights are often championed, the silence surrounding the martyrdom of Christians in many African nations is deafening.

Why Does This Continue?

The reasons for this persecution are complex. Religious extremism, political instability, ethnic conflicts, and economic disparities all play a role. In some regions, being a Christian is equated with being an outsider or enemy, making believers easy targets for violence. 

But underlying these factors is the simple reality that darkness often rebels against light. The Gospel of Christ challenges oppressive systems, and in return, many in power, whether political or religious, lash out against those who live out the teachings of Jesus.

However, it's not just an African issue. From North Korea to the Middle East, and even in countries where Christianity once flourished, believers are still being marginalised, imprisoned, murdered or executed for their faith. The persecution of Christians is a global crisis that deserves our attention and action.

What Can We Do?

As Christians, it’s not enough to simply acknowledge this dreadful state of affairs. We must actively work to support our brothers and sisters who are suffering for their faith. So, what can we do?

Pray Unceasingly: The Bible tells us that "the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). Pray for those who are being persecuted, for their strength, protection, and courage. Pray also for their persecutors, that their hearts may be transformed by the love of Christ.

Raise Awareness: One of the most significant challenges in addressing persecution is the lack of widespread awareness. Many people, even within the Church, are unaware of the scale of Christian persecution worldwide. Share stories, educate your community, and bring attention to the suffering of persecuted Christians.

Advocate for Change: Use your voice to call for justice. Write to your government representatives, urging them to take action and provide aid to persecuted Christian communities. International pressure can make a difference, and our leaders need to hear that this issue matters to their constituents.

Support Charities and Organisations: Many Christian organisations, such as Open Doors, Release International, and Aid to the Church in Need, are working tirelessly to provide aid, advocacy, and support to persecuted Christians around the world. Consider donating to or volunteering with such groups to ensure those in need are not forgotten.

Encourage Solidarity: As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let us not forget the global body of Christ. Encourage solidarity within your church, fostering a spirit of unity and concern for Christians in peril. Share their stories in sermons, Bible studies, and prayer groups. The Church is one body, and when one part suffers, all suffer with it (1 Corinthians 12:26).

Hope in the Midst of Darkness

Though the persecution of Christians remains a grim reality, we must hold on to hope. Jesus Himself promised, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). The Church has withstood centuries of persecution, and though the suffering is immense, the power of Christ’s resurrection gives us the assurance that evil will not prevail.

As we enter this pre-Christmas season, let us remember not only the manger but also the cross and the sacrifice Jesus made for all of humanity. And let us not rest while His followers continue to suffer for the same faith that we are free to celebrate. Their plight calls us to action, and as followers of Christ, it is our duty to respond.

This Christmas, let us resolve to stand in solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters, ensuring that their voices are heard, their suffering is acknowledged, and their faith is honoured. Together, we can be a light in the darkness, carrying forward the hope of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it.

To learn more about what you can do please visit these resources:-

https://www.opendoorsuk.org

https://releaseinternational.org

https://acnuk.org

https://www.genocidewatch.com/single-post/2020/08/07/silent-slaughter-2-decades-of-genocide-in-nigeria

https://www.ofnc.org.uk/who-we-are

https://canng.org

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Rediscovering the True Meaning of Christmas: A Guide to Reconnect with the Spirit of Christmas

In our modern world, the Christmas season often gets overshadowed by consumerism, materialism, and the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. 

We may find ourselves caught up in the frenzy of Christmas shopping, decorating, and party planning, but in the midst of all this, it's all too easy to forget the real meaning of Christmas. However, it's never too late to reclaim the essence of this cherished season. In this blog post, we'll explore some heartfelt ways to get the real meaning of Christmas back.

Reflect on the Origin

To reconnect with the true meaning of Christmas, it's important to reflect on its origin. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is considered by Christians as the Saviour of the world. Take time to read the nativity story from the Bible and contemplate the significance of Jesus' birth. Understanding the spiritual foundation of Christmas can help you regain its true essence.

Practice Gratitude

Christmas is a time for gratitude and giving. Instead of focusing solely on what you want to receive, take a moment to appreciate what you have and consider how you can give back to others. Whether it's through acts of kindness, volunteering, or donating to charity, practicing gratitude can bring you closer to the heart of Christmas.

Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones

Amidst the seasonal chaos, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of spending time with loved ones. Make a conscious effort to connect with family and friends. Share stories, laughter, and make memories that will last a lifetime. These moments of togetherness are at the core of what makes Christmas special.

Embrace the Spirit of Giving

Instead of viewing gift-giving as a chore, approach it as an opportunity to show love and appreciation for those you care about. Thoughtful, meaningful gifts don't have to be expensive; they can be handcrafted or chosen with care to reflect the recipient's interests and needs.

Simplify Your Celebrations

In our consumer-driven society, it's easy to get caught up in the pressure to have the biggest and brightest decorations or the most extravagant parties. Consider simplifying your Christmas celebrations. Focus on what truly matters: the people you're with and the love and joy you share.

Create Meaningful Traditions

Traditions are a wonderful way to connect with the past and create lasting memories. Establish meaningful traditions that resonate with your family and values. Whether it's carolling in the neighbourhood, baking biscuits, or volunteering together, these traditions can help you reconnect with the spirit of Christmas.

Reflect and Meditate

Take some time during the Christmas season to reflect and meditate on the deeper meaning of Christmas. Consider the virtues of love, compassion, and forgiveness that are associated with this holiday. Personal reflection can help you internalise these values and live them more fully throughout the year.

Give Back to the Community

One powerful way to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas is to give back to your community. Consider volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or charity organisation. Helping those in need can remind you of the importance of selflessness and generosity.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time to celebrate love, compassion, and the birth of Jesus Christ. While it's easy to get lost in the commercial aspects of the holiday, by taking deliberate steps to reflect, give back, and spend quality time with loved ones, you can reconnect with the real meaning of Christmas. Let this holiday season be a time of spiritual growth and a rekindling of the values that make Christmas truly special.

Make Christmas Christmas for everyone

Christmas has many different meanings to many different people. Obviously, there's the celebration of the birth of Christ, obviously. But for many people Christmas has become a time to not only mark the birthday of Christ (even though the decision to use December 25th was fairly arbitrary and involved politics to an extent) but to celebrate family togetherness.

However, the COVID-inspired global recession means that for many people they still really cannot afford the type of traditional family Christmas that they were used to in the good old pre-COVID days.

But! There are ways to try to make sure that everyone gets the type of Christmas that they would like to have, the type of Christmas that they deserve.

Many supermarkets have schemes whereby shoppers can help to provide foods and gifts for families who are in need of help obtaining Christmas foods, gifts and the like.

Supermarkets such as Morrisons and Tesco have a system where their customers can go into the store and donate food. Morrisons and Tesco both have a different scheme when customers pick up a plain brown or white paper bag which contains foods, toiletries, etc which they will buy with their regular shopping and then place in a special colleting point behind the checkouts. In conjunction with a local charity the branch will ensure the donations go where they are most needed.

Also in the months running up to Christmas stores like Asda, Morrisons, Tesco, etc, collect new toys and other gifts to distribute to families in need of help. 

One organise that provides special help at Christmas time is Crisis at Christmas 

https://www.crisis.org.uk/crisis-at-christmas/what-is-crisis-at-christmas

There are also food bank charities which you can get involved with 

https://www.givefood.org.uk

https://www.yourlocalpantry.co.uk/pantry-listings

https://foodcycle.org.uk

https://www.trusselltrust.org

https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/foodbanks

https://www.feastwithus.org.uk

https://www.bankuet.co.uk/find-a-foodbank

https://www.stgilestrust.org.uk

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/using-a-food-bank

https://feedingbritain.org

https://fareshare.org.uk

You can check for food banks and church operated food pantries and charities involved with providing support to those in need during Christmas in your own local area by searching with Google, Bing, etc.

Imaged used courtesy of JaymzArt from Pixabay)