Honoring Jesus Beyond Christmas

Over the years, excessive consumerism has made us lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. Sadly, it has also shaped the way our children see the season; they often believe Christmas is all about receiving the best gifts, when in reality, it is about giving, sharing, and showing love. For many, Christmas has become a time to buy and buy; others are simply waiting for their gifts. Some spend the holidays seeking a temporary escape from life’s worries with a vacation, and for others, the season can feel heavy, bringing sadness, loneliness, or melancholy. Yes, it is wonderful to receive gifts, enjoy vacations, and share in celebrations, but is that what Christmas is truly about? Too often, we fill the season with meals, parties, and presents, without pausing to reflect on what we are truly celebrating, without even sharing the greatest gift of Christmas, Jesus Christ.

While Jesus was not born on December 25, this date was chosen to honor His birth. Instead of debating the exact day, we can focus on the greater gift: Jesus, the Savior, who gave His life for us and redeemed us from our sins. His birth, life, and sacrifice remind us of unconditional love. As John 3:16 tells us: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Pause and think: if God sacrificed everything for us, would we be willing to make such a sacrifice for the one we love most? His love is unmatched, His mercy unfailing, yet, sadly, we often spend little time truly remembering His legacy.

Christmas is a fleeting moment to thank Him for everything He has done and continues to do. It is the perfect time to worship, adore, and glorify Him, because through Him, we have salvation, eternal life, and the hope of glory. As Romans 8:17 reminds us, “Now if we are children, then we are heirs, heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings so that we may also share in His glory.” Through Jesus, we have been given new names: Redeemed, sons and daughters of God, the apples of His eyes, victorious, and virtuous.

Honoring Jesus is not just for December 25, it is a daily calling. It is reflected in how we live, love, and serve all year long. Here are practical ways to continue honoring Him beyond Christmas:

1. Pray Daily and Thank Him – Begin each day with prayer, thanking Jesus for His love, sacrifice, and the gift of salvation. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

2. Read Scripture Regularly – Reflect on God’s Word daily, not just the Christmas story. Let His promises guide your thoughts and actions.

3. Serve Others – Show Christ’s love year-round by helping those in need, volunteering, or offering a kind word. (Matthew 25:40)

4. Give Thoughtfully – Practice generosity through meaningful gifts, acts of kindness, or simply your time and attention. (Acts 20:35)

5. Sing and Praise Him – Worship isn’t just for holidays. Lift your voice in song, gratitude, and joy every day. (Psalm 100:1-2)

6. Share His Story – Tell friends, neighbors, or children about Jesus and the hope He brings.

7. Practice Forgiveness – Reconcile with others and let go of grudges, reflecting the peace and mercy Christ modeled. (Ephesians 4:32)

8. Reflect on His Sacrifice – Take quiet moments to meditate on His love, guidance, and the gift of eternal life. (John 15:13)

9. Live with Gratitude – Keep a journal or list to celebrate daily blessings and ways God is present in your life.

10. Use Your Gifts to Serve – Share your talents, creativity, and resources to glorify God and bless others.

11. Walk in Integrity – Make choices that honor God in all areas of life, from work to relationships.

12. Encourage Others in Faith – Build up your community by supporting and uplifting others spiritually.

    
    

Let us worship Him with all our hearts, adore Him through faith and obedience, and rejoice in His eternal love. May Christmas mark the beginning of a lifelong journey of honoring Jesus, not only in December but every single day. Let your heart be filled with His peace, your life with His blessings, and your actions with His love.