As a teenager, I remember the phrase “Keeping Christ in Christmas” seemed to be a slogan that many churches had adopted. This year, I’m determined to bring it back. With all the festivities, get-togethers, food, presents, and overall busy-ness of the season, the real reason that we celebrate Christmas often seems to get lost, like small toys or socks under a mountain of wrapping paper. So, this Christmas morning, whether you are celebrating in the comfort of your own home or somewhere else, I’d like to encourage you to join me (and my family) in worship of our Savior, Jesus Christ, Immanuel (God with us), by following three simple steps:

Read

At some point during the day (before the presents, after lunch, or before you go to bed) take some time to gather your family and read Scripture together. This will focus your hearts and minds on the love of God, seen through the delivery of His Son, which we celebrate at Christmas.

• Matthew 1:18-25
• Luke 2:1-20

Pray

After looking at Scripture, take some time to commune with God through prayer. Don’t rush through this step, but take your time, and remember the significance not just of Jesus’ birth, but also of his perfect life, atoning death, miraculous resurrection, as well as the anticipation of his return.

Sing

Finish your time of worship with a song. Let the words of a Christ-centered Christmas hymn fill your home and your hearts. (You don’t have to play an instrument or even be a good singer, just open up your favorite music streaming service or ask Alexa to play one of the following songs):

• Come Adore the Humble King
• Joy to the World
• O Come All ye Faithful
• O Come, O Come Emmanuel
• Sing We the Song of Emmanuel