Christmas Resources for Families

Christmas can often be an incredibly busy season, overflowing with to-do lists, events, and  distractions that pull our focus away from what truly matters. My prayer for families this year is that you will intentionally choose to slow down, be present with those you love, and fix your eyes on the true reason we celebrate: the birth of our Savior. 

Jesus is the Son of God who left His heavenly throne and was born as a humble baby in a stable, all to bring light, hope, and the ultimate rescue to a world in desperate need of a Savior. This season is a beautiful opportunity to center our hearts and homes on His great love for us and to share that love with others. 

Here are some encouraging ideas to help your family cultivate a Christ-centered Christmas:  

Find an Advent Reading Plan: Intentionally set your heart toward the Savior each day. There are countless resources available online and in print to guide you through the Advent season. We have a great one you can download here!  

Grab a Christmas Devotional Book or Story: Dive deeper into the meaning of Christmas with  a book or devotional. Helps us keep our eyes fixed on Him. Check out 5 of NextGen Pastor Lauren Van Hoy's favorites for the family.

Read the Christmas Story and Scriptures: Open your Bible to the accounts in Luke and Matthew. Include scriptures from the Old Testament that point to Jesus coming to rescue us from our sin, helping your family see the unfolding story of redemption (Isaiah, Psalms, Daniel, and Micah).  

Set Up a Nativity Scene: Place the nativity prominently in your home. Use it as a visual aid to walk through the Christmas story with your family.  

Use Apps as a Resource: Download a great app like Dwell, YouVersion, or She Reads Truth.  These resources offer daily devotionals and reading plans that can minister to you during this busy season and keep scripture in front of you.  

Play Worship and Christmas Music Often: Fill your home with the sounds of praise and the message of Christ's birth. Create a Christmas playlist!  

Make Church a Priority: Join fellow believers to worship during December. Join us for our Christmas Kick off and Christmas Eve services.  

Focus on Serving and Giving Your Time: I know time is short, but the greatest gift we can offer is often our time and attention. Find a local ministry, a neighbor, or a friend who could use a helping hand. Brainstorm a simple, tangible way you can serve them together as a family.  

Send Out Christmas Cards or Write Notes of Encouragement: Use this traditional activity as an opportunity to be intentional. In addition to a card, write a personal note of encouragement or  a simple prayer for the recipient.  

May you and your family experience the profound hope, peace, joy, and love of Christ this Christmas season. He truly is better than anything this world can offer.