“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” – Hebrews 12:2
Holidays are filled with traditions—decorating, baking, gathering with family, exchanging gifts. These moments shape our memories and form the culture of our homes. But if we’re not intentional, the busyness and consumerism can overshadow the true reason we celebrate. Creating Christ-centered traditions allows us to enjoy the beauty of the season while keeping our hearts focused on Jesus.
Why Traditions Matter
Traditions are powerful because they connect generations, create a sense of belonging, and shape what families value. In the Old Testament, God often called His people to establish rhythms and festivals as reminders of His faithfulness (see Deuteronomy 6:6–9). In the same way, our holiday traditions can be intentional reminders that point our families to Christ.
Ideas for Christmas
Here are some meaningful ways to center your Christmas traditions on Jesus:
Advent readings or candles – Read a passage of Scripture each evening leading up to Christmas, lighting candles to symbolize hope, peace, joy, and love.
Nativity focus – Set up a nativity scene and use it as a teaching tool for children, moving figures closer each day until Christmas Eve.
Birthday for Jesus – Bake a cake or have a special meal celebrating Christ’s birth.
Acts of kindness – Create a family tradition of serving others: deliver cookies to neighbors, donate toys, or volunteer together.
Christmas Eve Scripture reading – Read Luke 2 as a family before opening gifts or beginning celebrations.
Keeping Focus on Jesus
“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” – Colossians 3:17
It’s easy to get swept up in the noise of the season. To keep Christ at the center:
Begin celebrations with prayer.
Talk about the meaning of traditions and why your family does them.
Simplify when needed—less activity often means more space for reflection.
Use music, Scripture, and even décor to point hearts back to Christ.
Making Memories
Traditions aren’t just spiritual practices; they’re memory-makers. Children often remember the simple moments most: baking cookies while singing carols, sipping hot cocoa after serving at church, or reading the Christmas story in pajamas by the tree. When Christ is woven into these memories, they become lifelong anchors that remind them of His love.
Resources
Here are some helpful tools for building Christ-centered traditions:
Family Advent devotionals like Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu.
Scripture-based Advent calendars (printable or DIY).
Christian Christmas storybooks for children.
Worship playlists that mix classic carols with Christ-focused songs.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of celebration. Help us to build traditions that point our families to You. May our holidays not only bring joy but also deepen our love for Christ. Teach us to fix our eyes on Jesus this season and in every season. Amen.
