I know I’m not-still have shopping, baking, and a birthday to prepare for! So much to do along with work and taking care of the family. Are you nodding along with me?
Keeping our focus on Christ this time of year is tough for anyone, so I’m not going to talk about the busyness that threatens to steal the meaning of Christmas from us. I’m sure you’ve read enough on that topic already.
I want to address the difficulties that crop up this time of year in spiritually mismatched marriages. Specifically the challenge to keep Christ in the holiday especially if you have children. I know when my girls were young, this was quite a challenge. My sweet hubby has always been like a kid at Christmas time, so introducing more than my childhood nativity scene became a real challenge.
But each year I found small ways to give my girls a sense of the true meaning of the season through special activities and traditions. Yet I remember being near tears one year, thinking my two little ones only saw Santa. Minutes later the two of them stood in front of me singing Happy Birthday to Jesus. Thank you, God!
Keeping a family together is tough enough without the complications of trying to keep peace during the Christmas season. Here are a few tricks that have helped me along the years.
- Be flexible. Christmas Eve and Day services can be a point of conflict. I know it was for my family. I wanted us all to be together, but my sweet hubby just didn’t want to go to church Christmas Eve. And going without him or alone, was just…well…lonely. I found other ways to participate at church during the month of December to celebrate Christ’s birth. At home we also light a candle on our advent wreath each Sunday and on Christmas Day. And for those years that either Christmas Eve or Day landed on a Sunday, I went to the morning service.
- Compromise. Decide what matters most and be willing to bend on the rest. If you’re spouse sees you willing to adjust in one area, he or she may be willing to “return the favor.” And remember to approach any situation with prayer and respect. Our unbelieving loved ones will be more likely to reply in like manner.
- Relax. Remember that God knows your heart, and we can honor Christ’s birth many times and many ways throughout the year. Sometimes having unrealistic expectations only serve to cause more stress for you and your family. This goes back to being flexible.
- Pray. This probably should be number one. Whatever area that seems to trip you up each year, bring it before God now and prepare. Don’t give the enemy a way in to mess with your family and your Christmas celebrations. You might just be surprised how God works out a difficult situation for you. Bring God into your Christmas planning early. Not at the last minute.
I hope these tips help alleviate some of the stress typical of a S.U.M. If you have ideas that have worked for you, please share them in the comments. What better way to celebrate Christmas here at S.U.M than to give the gift of wisdom and caring to one another?
And, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Praying and believing,
Dineen
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