Celebrating Christmas Without Going Crazy

I just came from trying to do a bit of Christmas shopping.  Within five minutes I was extremely tired and ready to leave.  After almost being run over several times and still not finding what I was looking for, I gave up.  What a great commercial I could make for online shopping!  Better yet, why not just figure out something to give which doesn't mean getting in such a hurry, frustrated and depressed.

In all the scriptures surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ, not one of the principle players seemed hurried.  Each one recognized that this was God's celebration.  While ruminating on my failed shopping trip, I have identified some guidelines which might keep us all from going crazy during the holidays.

#1  We must keep a clear perspective on Christmas.

What are we trying to accomplish?  Are we trying to impress people?  Are we trying to keep up with someone else's expectations?  Many people are trying to maintain some traditions that have outlived their usefulness.  

Sometimes in all our busy rush, Christ is totally ignored.

Keep reminding yourself that this is Christ's birthday.  Are you honoring Him?  Does He have the prominent place in our festivities?

#2  We must re-evaluate our priorities.

Is our busyness really necessary?  It is easy to get pressured by the expectations of others.  What would others think about us if we don't do what we have always traditionally done.  We think we must send out Christmas cards.  We must host parties and exchange gifts.  Plus, we must make sure it is politically correct.  What would happen if you cut some of these things out?  Perhaps other people's expectations are not as strong as we think.  Our busyness may be self-imposed.  Maybe we're trying to keep up with our own high standards.

This year, we won't be sending all the Christmas cards we used to send.  LaWanda doesn't bake or cook as much as she did at one time.  We are cutting back.  Things of lesser importance must go.  You should decide what be be eliminated in order to still have a meaningful celebration.

#3  We must be alert to people at Christmas.  Luke's Gospel (Luke 1:78,79) talks about the fact that our Dayspring (Jesus Christ) came to bring light to those who are in darkness.  He had time for people.  At Christmas it is so easy to turn our attention to food, gifts, decorations, cards, travel and many other things.  Why not re-focus on PEOPLE, including those in our own families.  We need to show love, support and encouragement--even if we don't get some other things done which we wanted to do.

To ignore Christmas is not Christ-honoring, but a frantic busyness is no better.  This year, break the mold.  Change the pattern.  Christmas is about LOVE.  Now, you can celebrate it without going crazy.