For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
Christmas is a wonderful time when we celebrate the coming of Jesus. What an amazing gift to humanity. It is also a good time to remember that many people are less fortunate than ourselves. Many people go to Church services and enjoy singing carols that tell the Christmas story. At the same time we have traditions of buying gifts and feasting, which there is nothing wrong with. But with pressure to have the best Christmas ever, many struggle after Christmas as they have gone into debt to provide the Christmas they feel they should have, even if it is beyond their means.
In the UK the average family can spend 40 hours sitting and watching TV at Christmas. There is nothing wrong with watching television, but perhaps it would be good to be intentional about watching TV, spending time together as a family, having a family devotional or some time contemplating Jesus and what He has done.
Talking together as a family, spending time playing games and laughing together brings connection. There is often more opportunity to do this over the Christmas period – which makes it a more special time. Remember your family is a blessing, and that not everyone has a supportive family or even a family at all, and that being alone can be very painful at this time of year.
Be generous
One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. Proverbs 11:24-25
God’s generous heart was expressed when He sent His son to earth to die for us. As followers of Christ we want to be able to express his heart also to others and especially at Christmas time.
This starts with our family and then spreads out to others around us. For some Christmas is a challenging time and indeed it can be the loneliest time of year. Small acts of kindness can make a huge difference to someone. We can start small by seeing a need and doing something about it. It could be a kind word, buying a homeless person a meal or giving some hot food.
If you are not sure where to give, there are many excellent charities doing great work with those in need. A donation will be a blessing to someone, as the charity directs it to those in need.
If money is short, there are many other ways to be generous – giving your time can be a great blessing. Invite someone to come to a carol service with you. You can help someone, talk with them or listen to them. When you talk to someone in need, you can encourage them. When you listen to a person who people rarely listen to, it can be a great gift.
As we grow in our walk with God, we can take the opportunity to go beyond people’s expectations and grow in our generosity.
Remember this:
Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
A new year resolution
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. Proverbs 21:5
Often during the Christmas period we start to think of things we would like to achieve in the coming year. However, did you know that one third of New Year’s resolutions fail by the end of January? There are several reasons for this, including that we have chosen too many things to focus on, our resolution is vague, based on what others are doing or if there is no clear plan. As Christians we have the Word of God to guide us and the many practical things that the Bible has to say about plans for our resources and our money.
Having clear financial goals which are measurable helps make them more attainable. It also means that you know if you are meeting your goals or not, and if not indicates that you need to adjust your plan. Your goal must be something that it is realistic for you to achieve or you will be easily disheartened by it. It might be to start to save for something or to start to pay off a debt. Deciding on a specific figure each month will make it easier to keep to and more effective.
Tracking your progress toward your goal using a phone app or journal will also encourage you and reinforce your motivation towards achieving your goal.
Take time to pray and listen to God about what He has for you in 2020 and what he would like you to do towards what He wants.
“Don’t be like the religious leaders who were more concerned with tradition. Follow the example of the wise men, and seek God this Christmas. It’s the reason we celebrate Christmas - God wants to connect with you!”
The Word became a human being and, full of grace and truth, lived among us. We saw his glory, the glory which he received as the Father's only Son. John 1:14