Making the days leading up to Christmas very special

The days leading up to Christmas are busy for many people. We are buying those last-minute gifts, sending our cards and messages, and organizing for celebrations. It is a special time of year, of course, for those who love and celebrate their faith as we await the coming of Christ both into our hearts and to the world. This celebration is both religious and secular. Glimmering lights, fancy decorations and gifts are on display everywhere. Cookies, trees, lights, and celebrations are at hand. With all of this said, what is the best way to make the season truly special? Here are a few ways.

Slow down

This advice may seem odd at first but slowing down your pace to enjoy the celebratory moments is important. With lots to do, this may be difficult to do. Plan your to do list to include relaxing at home with some tea and cookies and bring along your prayer book or journal. Make a phone call to a friend you may not have spoken with in a while. Check on a neighbor or relative who may love to hear from you. These suggestions are just a few ways to slow your pace and enjoy the season. As you slow your pace, reflect on the birth of Christ and what it means to you heart and your life.

Devote more time to prayer

With so much to do, how can we make time to pray? First, look at prayer as a time to enjoy with the Lord, not an obligation. Whether in adoration, at home, or someplace else, make the time to be with him. During this season, so many suffer due to loneliness, loss of a loved one, or something else. Your prayers can make the biggest difference for them. Prayer is also the best gift we can give, not so much the presents.

Reach out to someone who is marginalized in your life

There are so many people who feel marginalized in our lives. When we think of marginalized, we may think of someone in a third world country or someone far away, but many times they are people very close to our lives. It could be a family member, a friend, a neighbor, or someone at church. Think about who you know who may love to hear from you. Perhaps there is a member of your extended family who is on the outside of the rest of the family dynamic. Maybe this is someone who has been tossed aside, gossiped about, or left out. Make a phone call or send a message to that person and let them know that not only does God care but even more importantly so do you. Be Christ to someone who needs more love and support. Remember, reaching out to the lonely and the rejected is how we can best imitate our savior, Jesus.

There are many more ways to make the most of the days leading up to Christmas and beyond. Pray about what they are in your life, and then act. Be blessed.