The holiday season arrives filled with treasured memories and beloved Christian traditions. Yet, it’s easy to lose sight of the true reason for the season amid a flood of advertisements urging us to buy more and do more. While I truly enjoy decorating, selecting gifts, and wrapping them with care, I often find myself feeling weary from the commercial aspects of Christmas—sometimes I feel just like Charlie Brown searching for deeper meaning.
This year, I’ve decided to slow down, pray, and refocus on what Christmas means as a follower of Christ—celebrating the birth of Jesus, enjoying fellowship over shared meals, singing hymns that glorify God, cherishing time with loved ones, and practicing gratitude for God’s blessings. Though I am not a theologian or pastor, I have discovered a few faith-centred practices that help me return to the heart of Christmas and keep materialism in perspective.
If you are also seeking to quiet distractions and rediscover the joy and hope of Advent through Christ, here are three spiritual practices that have most helped me:
Limit Phone Usage Mobile devices provide immediate access to a wealth of global resources and can be useful tools for gathering information and sparking creativity. Nevertheless, excessive use—particularly of social media—often results in unhelpful comparisons and endless scrolling without true fulfillment. Scripture reminds us, “Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways” (Psalm 119:37). For Christians, the festive season offers an opportunity to step back from online consumerism, which is especially pervasive at this time of year. Instead, devote time to spiritually enriching activities: reading Scripture by candlelight, reflecting on the nativity story, or singing carols that celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Embrace mindfulness and connection—perhaps take a peaceful stroll to admire the Christmas lights in your community, offer prayers of thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 5:18), or keep a reflective journal focused on God’s blessings.
Uphold Family Traditions Longstanding family customs can greatly enhance the joy and meaning of Christmas celebrations, echoing the values of faith and togetherness at the heart of the Christian tradition. Nostalgia and comfort often come from rituals passed down through generations, reminding us of the love shared within our families and the hope brought forth by Christ’s arrival. As Proverbs teaches, “Do not forsake your friend and your father’s friend” (Proverbs 27:10), pointing us toward the importance of honoring relationships and heritage. Instead of chasing fleeting trends, invest in practices that connect you spiritually—such as preparing traditional meals while sharing stories of gratitude, attending Midnight Mass or a Christmas Day service, or gathering loved ones for readings of the nativity passage (Luke 2:1–20). These customs root the holiday in its original message of peace and goodwill, reinforcing that the true riches of Christmas lie in faith and fellowship.
Manage Expectations The Christmas period frequently brings heightened pressures—choosing ideal gifts, organizing perfect gatherings, or hosting elaborate feasts. These expectations can overshadow the simple joys and spiritual purpose of the season. As followers of Christ, we are reminded, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Release unnecessary anxieties and focus on priorities that nourish the soul—spending time in prayer, practicing generosity toward those in need (Matthew 25:40), and making space for quiet reflection on the message of hope that Jesus brings. In doing so, the festivities become not just an occasion for merrymaking but a chance to draw nearer to God and each other.
A Final Word Whatever your plans this holiday season, may you carve out space to care for yourself and embrace what brings you gratitude and joy. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased” (Luke 2:14). Merry Christmas, friends—and may your celebrations be marked not by pressure, but by peace.
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