Tired of Christmas as usual? Had it up to here with the long lines, long bank statements and long recovery time? If so, I want to invite you to join the revolution to take back Christmas. No, not that kind of revolution. I’m not advocating boycotts or signing petitions, nor am I encouraging you to stand on a street corner carrying placards of how “We’re taking back Christmas from that godless pagan scum! (In Jesus’ name)” This is more of a silent revolution. This is a revolution of the heart that affects the actions. A revolution that truly makes a difference in people’s lives around town and around the world. This revolution directly affects your attitude about Christmas and how you will spend your money this year. This revolution will make this a year where your primary focus is on how you can make a lasting difference in the lives of people outside of your own family.
Now, I’m not saying you have to cut out all gift giving…just cut back. Get to the heart of Christmas…fight the commercialism and self-centeredness that has hijacked a season that is supposed to focus on the coming Savior; the One who gave the greatest gift of all.
So, be creative. Take advantage of some of the great opportunities that I discussed in this post. I would also encourage you to read a great post on Michael Hyatt’s blog about starting traditions with your family that will teach and encourage them to focus on an attitude of generosity this year. The following is an excerpt:
Why not start a tradition. Along with creating their own “wish list,” your kids make out a list of the gifts they plan to give away to others. This could include people they know and perhaps people they don’t know. The gifts can be ones they buy with their own money, or some of their own possessions they treasure.
Let’s take it a step further. What if for every gift they put on their wish list, they have to match it with a gift they plan to give away—one of their own toys, dolls, electronic devices, or games? This may just balance their “giving and receiving” experience a bit more.
Whatever you decide to do, take a stand against the status quo. Decide that you’re no longer going to be victimized by the consumer mentality that robs your joy, your finances, and your celebration of Immanuel (God with us). In so doing, I bet you’ll absolutely have the best, most memorable Christmas ever. Blessings!
