Christmas Magic

As a Christian parent, it is important for me to teach Christmas appropriately. I love the tree, lights, and presents, but I also know there is something deeper about this holiday.

Christmas is a love story. It is the love of God that is deeper than the ocean and wider than the sky. It is a shocking and meaningful decision for God to come to the world, to be born of a human and to choose to be limited in every way possible. I want this lovestory to be more than a fairytale to my child.

So, how do I do that?

How do I make this classic 2024 years old Christmas tale more personal and relevant?

Family culture is a immense combination of rituals, actions, modelling, routines, words, and atmosphere. It is organically developed and strongly dominates our feelings and attitude. This means what we think, not necessarily what we verbally emphasize, set the vibe and the culture. I can list examples but there are so much more subtle gestures, body language and nuance that are embedded in everyday conversation. If my child sees me planning presents for families and having fun decorating the house, my child learns having fun with family and friends at Christmas. If my child sees me volunteering at events, interacting with people in needs, and planning dishes to share with them, my child learns Christmas is about sharing with people in need. If my child sees me talking about church events and devote myself to various roles, then my child absorbs that it is a Christian event.

This is why just talking about the love and sacrifice of Jesus in small dose would not suffice to make it part of the Christmas culture. Going to church and participating in the concert can easily become mere ritual without the message.

This Christmas, I endeavor to create a new culture about Christmas starting in my home. Jesus’ lovestory needs to be part of this amazing holiday. Of course, I still want to enjoy the fun and plan time with people I love and who need me. But I will remember and remind starting myself of the priority. When His love truly gets to us, Christmas will be warm, cozy, and wonderful without all the extras.

In practice, we can start with reading the Bible. It is obviously the oh-so-famous story but I believe there is a benefit of being reminded every year. Let's meditate on the words, why he came, and what was his purpose on earth. Share with our kid the message, and make connection to our purpose on this earth. Encourage them to add their thoughts and feelings, and give thanksgiving prayer.

Telling the lovestory everyday can also make a big difference. During the advent, we can remind our kids every single day that Jesus loves us so dearly that he came to earth just to sacrifice himself to save us. That was his sole purpose. Saying this and hearing this every day, the messages will get ingrained in us and the kids, and sparks true Christmas magic!