CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS WITH FAMILY



In these times of economic uncertainty, many of us yearn for a simpler, less stressful holiday season. “There is a universal wish to end the year with a festival of renewal that rekindles our faith, brings us closer to the people we care to ward off the commercial excesses of the season and create an authentic, joyful celebration in tune with our unique needs and desires,” write authors Jo Robinson and Jean Coppock  Staeheli in Unplug the Christmas Machine.
1. Create A Jesse Tree
A Jesse Tree is decorated with ornaments that symbolize God’s plan to bring his Savior to the world – from creation, through the Hebrew exodus, the reign of King David and all the way to Jesus’ birth. Pinterest is full of Jesse Tree ornament tutorials and books can be found that have scripture, prayers, and devotionals to accompany the ornaments.

2. Decoration Of Party   
Get the whole family involved in putting up the tree and other Christmas decorations by planning a specific time. Serve hot chocolate, play Christmas music and turn lose your decorating muse. 


3.LIGHT SHOW
Most localities have a light show within easy driving distance. These shows are generally in a park and feature large and innovative light displays. Weekends are peak visiting time, so if you don’t like crowds, pick a weekday evening. Our family has a tradition of going to see the local light show after Christmas to avoid the crush. Most venues charge by the car-load.



4.Plan a movie night

In the bustle of December, a movie night at home with popcorn and hot chocolate is a family favorite.

5.Read the real Christmas story

My kids wake up with a month’s worth of bottled anticipation ready to dive into the Christmas presents. Several years ago, we decided to start with the real reason for Christmas. So before the chaos of wrapping paper and bows, we first read about the birth of Jesus in Luke 2:1-20. Some families enjoy reading this passage just before bedtime on Christmas Eve or when everyone is gathered around the Christmas dinner table.