Keeping Christ at the Center of Christmas Traditions

Keeping Christ at the Center of Christmas Traditions

Keeping Christ at the Center of Christmas Traditions
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given… and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” — Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)

The sparkle of lights, the smell of cookies baking, the joyful melodies of carols, and the rush of wrapping paper—Christmas is a season filled with beauty, wonder, and cherished traditions. But in all the excitement, it’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and forget the heart of it all.

Christmas isn’t about the gifts under the tree—it’s about the Gift on the tree.
At the core of this season is a manger, a miracle, and a Savior born to rescue us. As Christian parents, we have the beautiful opportunity—and responsibility—to make sure our children know that Christmas is first and foremost about Christ.

So how do we keep Jesus at the center while still enjoying all the fun? Here are some practical, meaningful ways to weave Christ into your family’s Christmas traditions.
1. Start with the Story
Before the presents, before the meal, before the movies—start with the story that matters most.

Read Luke 2:1–20 as a family on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning. You can:
  • Act it out with costumes or nativity figurines.
  • Use a children’s Bible for younger kids.
  • Light candles and make it a reverent moment of reflection.
Let the birth of Jesus be the first gift your family unwraps.
2. Create a Christ-Centered Advent Tradition
The days leading up to Christmas are the perfect time to slow down and prepare hearts.
  • Advent Calendar with Scripture: Each day, open a verse that points to the coming Messiah.
  • Jesse Tree Tradition: Trace Jesus’ family tree through Bible stories.
  • Candle Lighting: Light a candle each Sunday of Advent and focus on hope, peace, joy, and love.
These small, consistent moments help children anticipate Jesus, not just presents.
3. Celebrate with Worship
Music touches hearts in a powerful way—especially children’s. Fill your home with songs that proclaim the true meaning of Christmas.
  • Sing or play Christ-centered carols like “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” or “Silent Night”.
  • Host a mini worship night with your kids—sing, pray, and talk about Jesus' love.
  • Attend a Christmas Eve service together, even virtually if needed.
Let their hearts be lifted in adoration, not just anticipation.
4. Give, Don’t Just Get
One of the most powerful ways to keep Christ at the center is by modeling His generous heart.
  • Choose a charity to support as a family (buy gifts for a child in need, donate to a local mission, etc.).
  • Bake cookies or make cards for neighbors, first responders, or the elderly.
  • Encourage kids to pick one toy they love to give away.
Help them see that Christmas isn’t just about receiving love—but sharing it.
5. Make the Nativity Scene a Daily Reminder
Place your nativity set somewhere visible. Don’t let it just be decoration—make it a daily talking point.
  • Move Mary and Joseph closer to the stable each night of Advent.
  • Have kids place baby Jesus in the manger on Christmas morning.
  • Use the characters to tell and retell the story.
Let it remind your family: This is why we celebrate.
6. Wrap Gifts with Purpose
Even gift-giving can point to Jesus.
  • Use three gifts to represent the wise men’s gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
  • Add a Scripture tag to each gift.
  • Before opening presents, pause and say, “We give gifts because God gave us the greatest gift—His Son.”
Let joy and generosity echo the Gospel.
7. Pray Together as a Family
Whether around the tree, at bedtime, or before meals—make prayer part of your tradition.
  • Thank God for sending Jesus.
  • Pray for those who are hurting or lonely.
  • Ask God to help you keep your hearts focused on Him.
These moments anchor your family in faith and deepen the joy of the season.
Final Thoughts: The Greatest Gift
Christmas is a celebration of presence—God’s presence with us.
In a world that can make this season noisy and commercial, let your home be filled with the quiet awe of the manger.

Let your children know that while cookies, lights, and gifts are fun, nothing compares to the wonder of Emmanuel—God with us.

So hang the stockings. Watch the movies. Bake the treats. But in all of it, whisper the truth that changes everything:

“Jesus is the reason we celebrate.”

“Lord, help us keep our eyes on You this Christmas. Let our traditions reflect Your heart, and may our homes be filled with the joy of Your presence.”