Monday, December 3, 2012

Getting Christ back into Christmas

This time of year is my favorite. One of my favorite things about the holidays is the Nativity. It makes me sad  that Santa has overrun the real reason for Christmas. It used to be that people would put out nativity sets in their front yards, now it is rare to see a nativity except for the churches.

The Nativity is an integral part of our Christmas decor. We keep our decorations simple, with less Santa and more of a winter theme. We have several  nativity sets including one handmade set that belongs to my husband.  Having a nativity that the kids can play with, allows them to touch, feel, and experience the Christmas story in a real way.


© Welburnstuart | Stock Free Images & Dreamstime Stock Photos


There are many other ways to get Christ back into the holiday season. I have listed a few ideas below.


Many people have an advent calender. One of my neighbors has a large advent calender and instead of little treats, they have a scripture to enjoy each day. It sounds like a wonderful idea to me.

The Music of Christmas! There are many  beautiful Christ centered songs. Make sure you teach the children the songs of Christ's birth, they will learn plenty of Santa, snowmen and reindeer songs in school and other places. Fill your home with good Christmas songs, the messages will sink deep into their hearts.

Tell the stories of Christmas. There are so many great Christmas stories to share. Last year we were given twelve days of Christmas stories along with little treats. It was fun to share a treat and a story each night counting down to Christmas.

Serve. This is a great time to serve others. There are many opportunities to get out in your community and serve others this time of year. Some of my most memorable holiday moments are those of years when we served others.

Share the symbolism of our Christmas traditions. For example, the evergreen tree we decorate represents everlasting life. The candy cane represents the Shepard's crook and so on.


Slow down, worry less and worship more. Let the true spirit of Christmas overcome you this year.





additional resources
the holiday spot a history of christmas
happy home school activities to teach Christmas symbols


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