Biblical Principles for a Joyful Holiday Season Christmas can be a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress and financial burden. Set a budget, get creative, and focus on experiences that honour God and bless those around you. However, for many people, Christmas can also be a time of stress and financial burden. 1. Set a budget: Decide in advance how much money you are willing and able to spend on gifts. It is important to be realistic about what you can afford, and to stick to your budget even if it means making some sacrifices. The Bible teaches us to be good stewards of our resources, and to avoid debt whenever possible. Proverbs 22:7 says, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." We can honour God and avoid the stress and burden that comes with financial bondage. 2. Make a list: Once you have set a budget, it is important to make a list of the people you want to buy gifts for and the gifts you want to buy. This will help you stay organized and avoid overspending. In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus teaches us not to store up treasures on earth, but to store up treasures in heaven. By focusing on the needs and desires of others rather than our own desires for material possessions, we can demonstrate love and generosity in a way that honours God and blesses those around us. 3. Get creative: Gift-giving does not have to be expensive. There are many creative and meaningful gift ideas that can be made or purchased inexpensively. Consider making homemade gifts. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul tells us that God loves a cheerful giver. By giving gifts that are thoughtful and meaningful, rather than expensive and flashy, we can demonstrate our love and generosity in a way that pleases God and blesses others. 4. Focus on experiences: Instead of focusing solely on material gifts, consider giving the gift of experiences. This could include tickets to a concert or sporting event, a gift certificate for a restaurant or spa. In Ecclesiastes 3:12-13, Solomon reminds us that there is nothing better than to enjoy our work and the fruits of our labour. We can help our loved ones create memories that will last a lifetime and enjoy the blessings of life to the fullest. 5. Practice gratitude: Finally, it is important to remember the true meaning of Christmas and to practice gratitude for the blessings we have received. This means taking time to reflect on the birth of Jesus and the salvation he offers, and to thank God for the many blessings he has given us throughout the year. In Colossians 3:17, Paul tells us to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. By practicing gratitude and focusing on the blessings we have received, we can find joy and peace in the midst of the busyness and stress of the Christmas season.
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Keeping Memories Alive: Honoring What Matters During the Holidays The holidays have a way of magnifying absence. An empty chair at the table, a missing laugh during a favorite tradition—it’s a reminder of those who are no longer with us or the life chapters we’ve left behind. But while loss is deeply felt, it doesn’t mean we can’t carry those memories forward into our celebrations. Honoring what or who we’ve lost can be a way to keep their presence alive in our hearts, bringing both comfort and connection to the season. Here are a few meaningful ways to preserve memories this holiday season: Incorporate Their Favorites: Cook their signature dish or play the holiday song they loved most. These small acts bring a sense of closeness. Create a Memory Ritual: Light a candle in their honor or set up a small memory corner with photos and mementos. It’s a way to pause and reflect during the hustle of the season. Share Stories: Gather with loved ones and share favorite anecdotes or lessons from the person you’re honoring. Laughing and reminiscing can be healing. Give in Their Name: Donate to a cause they cared about or volunteer your time in their honor. Acts of kindness often carry their spirit forward. Journal Your Thoughts: Writing down what you miss, what you learned, or even what you wish you could say to them can be cathartic and deeply personal. The beauty of memory is that it doesn’t fade—it lives in the traditions we create, the stories we share, and the love we continue to feel. Keeping memories alive isn’t about dwelling in the past; it’s about letting those who shaped us remain a part of who we are. How do you honor memories during the holidays? #HolidayMemories #HonoringLovedOnes #ConnectionThroughTradition #HealingThroughReflection Let's talk: · https://lnkd.in/dmFzbK8G
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🎄 Our Strange New Christmas Tradition... 🎄 Admit it - Christmas is just the best. The message. The traditions. The memories. The wonder. The feels. ❤️ But a couple of years ago my wife and I thought about something... What are kids concerned about on Christmas Day? 🎁 The obvious answer: the presents. (And understandably so.) 🎁 But as Christian parents, although we love giving our kids wonderful memories they'll be able to cherish for the rest of their lives - getting presents is not really what we wanted their main focus to be on the day that's meant to commemorate Christ's birth. So the question we struggled with was... 🤔 How do we keep Christmas about Christ while still giving our kids those precious memories and experiences like we had growing up? 🤔 So the past couple of years we've tried something different. We've introduced the concept of "Giving Days." Each Saturday in December leading up to Christmas, 1-2 of our kids is assigned a Giving Day. On their designated Giving Day, their siblings (and my wife and I) focus on giving gifts just to those 1 or 2 kids. The idea is that these days can be focused on generosity for the other kids who are giving the gifts, rather than just on getting presents. But then each kid still does get their day when they have the joy of receiving as well. Then on Christmas Day, most of the gifts have been opened so we do a "birthday party for Jesus" (we still do put little gifts in their stockings - I guess you could call them "party favors" 😊). We eat a brunch and have a "birthday cake" (although I think last year we just did Little Debbies 😂 ). We watch a nativity-themed Christmas movie and sing Christmas songs. And in the afternoon we usually celebrate with grandparents. It's been something of an experiment the past couple of years and we've enjoyed it! I think it's something we'll continue but we'll see. I'd love to hear your thoughts! 👇 What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions? Any thoughts on our approach or advice on how we could improve it?
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What Does Christmas Mean to You? Christmas holds different meanings for everyone. For some, it’s a time of joy, family, and celebration. For others, it’s a season of reflection, sorrow, or even struggle. But amidst the lights, gifts, and gatherings, what is the heart of Christmas? At its core, Christmas is a season of remembrance—a call to pause and reflect on what truly matters. It’s not just about presents or parties but celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, a moment that changed history. For many, it’s also a time to show gratitude, compassion, and love by giving to those in need and cherishing the company of family and friends. Yes, the season can be stressful, with over-commercialization and social obligations taking center stage. But Christmas invites us to look deeper—to honor beginnings, extend kindness, and bring hope to others. December is here, brimming with festivities. But beyond the gifts, lights, and parties, Christmas is a time to reflect on its deeper meanings: • Celebrating the birth of Jesus. • Sharing and caring for those in need. • Spending quality time with family. • Giving thanks and showing gratitude. • Embracing joy and making others happy. This Christmas, let’s take a moment to breathe it, slow down, and focus on the essence of the season: love, gratitude, and the joy of remembering the Savior’s birth. #Christmas #Reflection #Gratitude #Faith
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Merry Christmas! As we celebrate this beautiful season, I want to remind us all that Christmas should never be about overspending or putting ourselves in debt. It’s not about buying the most expensive gifts or keeping up with the latest trends. The true meaning of Christmas is about love, gratitude, and the gift of Jesus and eternal life. It’s about cherishing the blessings we’ve been given and passing on something meaningful to those we love. As I reflected on this season, I thought about my sons—27, 28, and 30—and what I could give them that would truly set the foundation for something lasting. Something that could build a legacy, not just for them, but for generations to come. And then it came to me—Generational Wealth. This year, instead of traditional gifts, I gave them something more meaningful, something that can continue to grow and provide for our family for years ahead. I handed each of them a Christmas card containing three very special papers: The document for our Family Estate and Trust, a solid foundation to build upon. The deed to our family timeshare, now fully paid off. The purchase agreement for our new 4.8 acres of land, a place where dreams can grow and flourish. This is just the beginning. With each birthday and Christmas to come, I’ll continue to bless them with gifts that increase in value, expanding our family legacy with more land, more property, and more opportunities for future generations. As a mother, there’s no greater joy than knowing I’m laying the groundwork for their future success, prosperity, and security. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to build this legacy with them, and I pray they will carry it forward with love and wisdom. This is my gift to them—Generational Wealth—and the greatest blessing I could ever give. #generationalweath #buyland #land #properties #Christmas #gifts #thetruemeaningofchristmas #blessedbeyondmeasures
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Top 10 Reasons Why We Celebrate Christmas Christmas is a season of wonder, joy, and reflection. Here are the top 10 reasons why we celebrate this cherished time of year: 1. The Glorious Birth of Jesus: At the heart of Christmas is the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth, a moment of divine love and hope for all humanity. 2. Valuable Time with Loved Ones: The season brings families and friends together, creating moments to cherish and memories to treasure. 3. The Joy of Giving and Receiving: Christmas is a reminder of the happiness found in sharing love and gratitude through thoughtful gestures. 4. Reaching Out to Those in Need: It inspires us to show kindness and generosity to those who are less fortunate. 5. Luminosity Amidst Darkness: From twinkling lights to glowing candles, Christmas brings brightness into the darkest days of the year. 6. Peace and Forgiveness: The season encourages reconciliation and the renewal of relationships, fostering harmony in our lives. 7. Wonder for the Winter Solstice: As the year turns, we marvel at the beauty of nature and the promise of new beginnings. 8. Relishing Life’s Little Pleasures: Christmas reminds us to pause, savor simple joys, and appreciate life’s blessings. 9. Strengthening Faith and Hope: It reinforces spiritual growth and trust in the enduring promise of God’s love. 10. A Universal Message of Love: Beyond faith and tradition, Christmas unites people with its universal message of compassion and goodwill. As we celebrate, may these reasons fill our hearts with warmth, joy, and meaning this Christmas season!
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🎄✨ The holidays are here, and while the glitter and garland are fabulous, it’s the memories that make Christmas truly magical. But let’s be honest—those memories don’t just happen by accident (unless you count Uncle Bob setting the turkey on fire 🍗🔥). This year, let’s take a cue from past holidays—both the picture-perfect and the not-so-much—and be intentional about creating moments that matter. Whether it’s starting a quirky new tradition, having heartfelt conversations, or just slowing down to enjoy the chaos, now’s the time to lead the charge on meaningful Christmas moments. ✨ Need some inspiration? Check out our latest blog: Christmas Memories Blog https://lnkd.in/gRPURf2W. It’s full of heart, humor, and a gentle nudge to make this year’s memories ones you’ll treasure forever. Let’s make the most of this season—intentional, joyful, and just a little bit messy (because, let’s be real, that’s part of the charm)! 🎁🎅 #ChristmasMemories #LeadWithLove #LeadershipOnTheRocks Want to read some more 🎁 Start unwrapping the fun here: Christmas Blogs (https://lnkd.in/gKVYfW7Q) or dive into one of our favorites below.
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🎄✨ The holidays are here, and while the glitter and garland are fabulous, it’s the memories that make Christmas truly magical. But let’s be honest—those memories don’t just happen by accident (unless you count Uncle Bob setting the turkey on fire 🍗🔥). This year, let’s take a cue from past holidays—both the picture-perfect and the not-so-much—and be intentional about creating moments that matter. Whether it’s starting a quirky new tradition, having heartfelt conversations, or just slowing down to enjoy the chaos, now’s the time to lead the charge on meaningful Christmas moments. ✨ Need some inspiration? Check out our latest blog: Christmas Memories Blog https://lnkd.in/g4SZwcr2. It’s full of heart, humor, and a gentle nudge to make this year’s memories ones you’ll treasure forever. Let’s make the most of this season—intentional, joyful, and just a little bit messy (because, let’s be real, that’s part of the charm)! 🎁🎅 #ChristmasMemories #LeadWithLove #LeadershipOnTheRocks Want to read some more 🎁 Start unwrapping the fun here: Christmas Blogs (https://lnkd.in/guCsbKnA) or dive into one of our favorites below.
Christmas Memories
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🎄It’s the most wonderful time of the year… or at least, it’s supposed to be. But instead of feeling joyful, you feel overwhelmed by the endless to-do lists, cluttered spaces, and the pressure to make everything “perfect.” I’ve been there. That feeling of guilt for not being cheerful enough? It’s real—and you’re not alone. But over the years, I’ve learned something powerful: joy doesn’t come from doing it all. It comes from slowing down and focusing on the true meaning of Christmas. That’s why I created the “Preparing Your Home and Heart for Christmas” series. It’s a simple, faith-centered guide to help you clear the clutter—both in your home and your heart—so you can embrace the peace and joy that Jesus brings. This Advent season isn’t about perfection; it’s about preparation for Christ’s arrival. Let’s walk this journey together, one small step at a time. 💛 ✨Ready to shift from overwhelmed to intentional? Let’s get started with Week 1 of Advent! ✨Making Room for Him✨ December is here, and the busyness is already creeping in—lists, plans, errands, stuff. But have you paused to ask yourself: What am I really preparing for? Luke 3:4 says, “Prepare the way for the Lord; make straight paths for Him.” This verse reminds us that Advent isn’t just about decorating or shopping—it’s about making room for Jesus in our homes and hearts. So let’s start small, right where we are. Begin with your entryway. Clear out the shoes piling up, the stack of mail on the table, or that decor that just doesn’t “spark joy.” By creating a warm and welcoming space, you’re not just tidying up—you’re creating an atmosphere of peace for your family and for Him. Take a moment today to pray: 🙏 Lord, help me prepare my heart and home to welcome You fully this Christmas. Remove anything that distracts me from Your peace and presence. This season isn’t about perfection; it’s about preparation—for Christ’s arrival. ❤️ What’s one thing you can clear out today to make room for Him? Let me know in the comments! ⬇️
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Please and Please, no one should wish me 'Merry Xmas' “Xmas?” I paused the first time I saw it. It felt like something vital was missing 👇 Christ. It got me curious. Why do people replace Christ with an X in Christmas? Is it just shorthand, or is there more to it? The truth is: many people use Xmas without realizing the deeper implications. So, let’s talk about why Merry Christmas should stay true to its roots and how this small change can preserve the essence of the holiday. 📌 Why Do People Say Xmas? 1. Convenience: Let’s face it, Xmas is shorter and quicker to write, especially in texts or headlines. 2. Ignorance: Many don’t know that replacing Christ with X shifts the meaning of the word. 3. Commercialism: Some brands focus more on the holiday season than the sacred reason behind it. 4. Modern Trends: The world’s fast-paced culture often reduces words, losing their deeper significance. 📌 But Here’s the Thing👇 Christmas isn’t just about festivities, shopping, or a day off work. It’s about Christ, the reason for the season—a celebration of His birth and a message of hope, love, and redemption. When we say Merry Xmas, we unknowingly remove the central figure who makes this season meaningful. 📌 Why It Matters to Say Merry Christmas: 1. The holiday is rooted in celebrating Christ’s birth. Let’s keep Him at the center. 2.Christmas is about giving, hope, and love; all inspired by Christ. 3.Words have power, and keeping Christ in Christmas respects its significance. 📌 What Can You Do? 1. Be intentional with your words, type “Christmas” fully, even in your messages. 2. Educate others when you see “Xmas” used casually. 3. Spread the message—Christmas is Christ. This isn’t just about tradition... it’s about preserving the true essence of a celebration that brings billions together. Let’s make it meaningful. So, to all my wonderful connections here, Merry Christmas! 🎄 May your season be filled with love, joy, and purpose. Let’s keep the spirit alive. ❓ What do you think about this? Do you use “Xmas” or “Christmas”? Has someone wished you 'Merry Xmas' before? How did you feel? Let me hear of your experience in my comment section ! PS: Repost to help someone out there! #ChristmasSeason #KeepChristInChristmas #ChristmasJoy #SeasonOfLove #HolidayReflections
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As we step into this Advent season, encourage your family to embrace this special time of waiting, reflecting, and preparing for the joy of Christmas. Advent isn’t just about counting down the days until Christmas - it’s an opportunity to slow down, gather as a family, and intentionally create moments of hope, peace, and togetherness. This year, consider lighting an Advent wreath together. Each candle represents a different theme: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. As you light each candle, take a moment to reflect on what these virtues mean to your family. Let the flickering light of each candle remind you of the light that is coming into the world. Above all, Advent is about preparing your hearts for the true gift of Christmas: the love and light that fills the world through the birth of Jesus. As a family, take time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and the hope you carry into the new one. If you’re interested in more biblical lessons and values for your family during this Christmas season, keep reading on these topics here: https://hubs.li/Q02ZC3HT0 #FamilyTime #FaithBasedParenting #MakeHomeMatter
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