Let’s face it. Christmas can be stressful. It’s easy to get wrapped up trying to create the ideal Christmas – that Hallmark Channel one.

Joel and I recently talked about one of the most meaningful Christmases we had as a family and what made it stand out. Here are some highlights from that conversation:

• Keeping Christ at the center of Christmas is easier when you’re focused on helping those who are less fortunate and in need.
• In many ways, the abundance we all have makes life more complicated. When you have less, it can make it easier to appreciate the small things in life.
• As parents, when we make a conscious decision to model giving to others it sets an example for our kids early on in their life.

To listen to the conversation, click here.

Some ways to make Christmas more meaningful and memorable: 

1. Simplify the demands of gift-giving by having each family member draw one name and purchase a gift for that person.

2. Give the gift of travel, creating experiences together rather than giving stuff, can be a great gift. Store up experiences rather than stuff. (You’ll never have to rent extra storage space to store wonderful memories.)

3. Take some time to bring Christmas cheer to the elderly or those who will be alone over the holidays.

AND, THE GREATEST GIFT
What brings the most meaningful experience isn’t “stuff” – it’s being present and connected in the moment with those around us. Giving our time is giving our most valuable asset to those we love. Our presence is the greatest present.
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Isaiah 9:6 & Matthew 1:23
To us a son is given … and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).