Jesus Is The Reason For The Season

It’s that time of year again—October through December—the season of falling leaves, colder weather, and pumpkin spice everything. But for many Christians, this time of year also brings something else: frustration.

“Christmas has become too commercialized!” you hear them say.

"It’s too secular now! It’s all about Santa and shopping! But what about the Savior? Jesus is the reason for the season."

You may agree. Christmas, after all, is meant to celebrate the birth of Jesus. But in a world filled with long shopping lists, festive gatherings, and holiday traditions, it can be hard to keep Christ at the center. So, how do we bring the focus back to Him?

This post isn’t about giving up your holiday traditions or feeling guilty for enjoying festive activities. It’s about showing how Jesus is the reason for the season in everything you do. Let’s explore how you can make Jesus the heart of your holiday season without ditching all the things you love.

Finding Jesus In Your Christmas Traditions

The holiday season is often filled with beloved traditions that bring warmth and joy to our homes. But in the middle of decorating, baking, and singing carols, it’s easy to lose sight of the true reason we celebrate. Fortunately, you don’t have to abandon these activities to keep Christ at the center. With a few simple shifts in perspective, you can make sure Jesus is part of every cherished tradition.

Decorating The Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree is often the centerpiece of holiday décor. But it can also serve as a beautiful reminder of why we celebrate. Think of the tree as an opportunity to tell the Christmas story.

As you string the lights, remind yourself and your family that Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12). Choose ornaments that reflect the nativity story—perhaps an angel, a star, or a small nativity scene.

When you place the star or angel on top of your tree, take a moment to share the story of the wise men following the star to find baby Jesus (Matthew 2:9-10) or the angels announcing His birth to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-14). Suddenly, decorating the tree becomes more than just a fun activity—it’s a chance to reflect on how Jesus is the reason for the season and bring the family together in His name.

Watching Christmas Movies

From The Nativity Story to The Star, there are plenty of Christian movies that recount the birth of Jesus. These films can be a powerful way to keep Christ at the center of your holiday celebrations.

But what about movies that seem less religious? Even in secular films about elves, reindeer, or snowmen, you can find ways to spark meaningful conversations about faith, love, and God’s grace. For instance, many Christmas movies revolve around themes like generosity, kindness, and family—values that reflect the character of Jesus.

So, grab some popcorn, pull up your favorite Christmas movie, and consider how Jesus is the reason for the season even in unexpected places.

Free Printable

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Bringing Christ Into Holiday Shopping

The pressure of finding the perfect gift can sometimes overshadow the joy of giving during the Christmas season. But when we remember that God gave us the most precious gift—His Son, Jesus (John 3:16)—our perspective on giving changes.

As you shop for presents, pause and thank God for His incredible gift to us. Reflect on how your gifts are an expression of the love you have for your family and friends. After all, we give because He first gave to us.

The next time you’re standing in a crowded store or scrolling through endless online deals, remind yourself that Jesus is the reason for the season and allow that truth to shape your approach to giving.

Yes, Even Santa Can Reflect Christ

Many Christians wrestle with the idea of Santa Claus, worrying that he distracts from the true meaning of Christmas. But what if we looked at Santa differently? Instead of seeing him as competition for Jesus, consider how he might reflect Christ’s love.

Santa is known for delivering joy to children around the world through acts of kindness and generosity. In a way, he mirrors how God uses people to bless others. His giving spirit can be an example of how we, too, can show Christ’s love to the people around us.

Remember, Jesus ate with tax collectors and ministered to people others looked down on. It’s not hard to imagine that He would appreciate someone who brings joy to children. Jesus is the reason for the season, and you can use even the story of Santa to illustrate the beauty of giving and love during Christmas.

Making Christ A Central Part Of Your Celebrations

Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But with all the festivities, it’s easy for Jesus to get lost in the shuffle. The good news is, you don’t need to add extra activities to keep Christ at the center. By being intentional, you can let Jesus guide every part of your celebration, turning even the smallest moments into a reflection of His love.

It’s All About Your Heart

At the end of the day, whether or not you have a Christ-centered Christmas comes down to your heart. You don’t need to reject holiday traditions like Santa, gift-giving, or even Christmas movies to keep your focus on Christ. Instead, it's about infusing everything you do with a reminder that Jesus is the reason for the season.

When you bake cookies, when you wrap gifts, when you sit around the table with family and friends—let each moment be a chance to reflect on the joy and peace that Jesus brings to our lives.

Recognize Jesus In Every Aspect Of The Season

The key to keeping Christ in Christmas is not about rejecting the commercialized aspects of the holiday, but about recognizing Christ in everything.

When you see Christmas lights, think of the light of the world. When you hear a Christmas carol, remember the angels singing in celebration of Jesus’ birth. And when you gather with family, reflect on the love that Christ has for each of us.

Every aspect of the holiday season can point back to Jesus if we let it. By choosing to see Him in the hustle and bustle, you’ll experience a Christmas that’s filled with more meaning, joy, and peace.

Let Jesus Be The Center Of Your Christmas

This Christmas, instead of focusing on the commercialization of the holiday, focus on the deeper meaning behind it. Make it your mission to let Jesus be the reason for the season in all that you do.

Whether it's decorating the tree, watching movies, shopping for gifts, or celebrating with family and friends, you can turn every activity into a reminder of His love. Christmas isn’t just about a day or a tradition—it’s about celebrating the One who came to save us.

And as you celebrate, you’ll find that the joy of Christmas comes not from the gifts, the parties, or even the traditions—but from the peace and love that only Jesus can bring.

Grace and peace,

Alicia

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