As the Christmas season approaches it is important to take time now to prepare for the spiritual side of the season. While everyone enjoys the lights, the hustle and bustle of the holiday and the gift giving, it is too easy to lose the true meaning of Christmas. Taking time to formulate a plan to celebrate and remember the true meaning of Christmas can really help the season to come alive.
One way that you can do this is by making time to serve someone during the Christmas season. Growing up my family always did the Twelve Days of Christmas for someone in need. Often the person was elderly or the family had just gone through a difficult time. We did not spend much in the monetary sense, but the homemade treats and ornaments were there to brighten their day. You can often carry this relationship forward into the next year, bringing the lasting light of friendship into their lives.
Another way to do this is to have your family prayer and scripture study focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Read the accounts of the Savior’s birth in the Bible and the Book of Mormon. Study his life as a family and ponder what you can do to become more like him. Learn the Christmas hymns and spend time singing them together.
You can also attend the annual First Presidency Christmas Devotional. This is schedule for December 7, 2008 at 6:00 pm mountain time. You may need to check with your local leaders to see when this will be broadcast at your ward building. The devotional features music and members of the First Presidency speaking of the importance of Christmas.
Finally take the time to be kind to those around you. This can do a lot to spread the Christmas spirit. If you are courteous and polite as you face the shopping crowds, and kind to the checker when you pay for everything, it will spread. Also as you take time to show kindness, you will feel happier and more at peace.
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