J.I.N.G.L.E. Keeping CHRIST in Christmas

With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to become busier, impatient, frustrated, and generally overwhelmed with all that needs to be done. Shopping for family members and extended family, planning special meals, decorating the house, and serving at both church and school makes each day a marathon. Working overtime to get the Christmas cards in the mail is enough to put a mom over the edge.

Keep the J.I.N.G.L.E. of Christmas focused on Lord Jesus!

J-  JesusFocus on WHO He is as Lord and Savior. Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Decorate with the Savior in mind rather than Santa.

I- Intentionality . Immerse yourself in God’s Word each day.Spend time doing what you love with the people you love. Give existing traditions a spin of faith. Along with The Night Before Christmas, read Luke 2.

N- Noel Make this Christmas CHRISTmas. Share the Good News.Sing like angels, “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” to adore Him.

G- Gratitude Cultivate and attitude of gratitude by modeling thankfulness. Discussing the difference between wants and needs puts the new spin on the desire to acquire. Consider gifts of service and homemade items rather than store bought. Plan a thank you note party for your kids to help get the notes done.

L- Love Share Christmas love with those less fortunate. Give to a local charity. Ring the bells for the Salvation Army. Deliver homemade treats to neighbors. Love like Jesus, without hesitation. 

E- Encourage Who do you know that could use a little encouragement during the holidays? Speak words of truth in love to be a light for Christ.

Download the printable J.I.N.G.L.E. bookmark to keep you on track this December, with your eyes and heart on Jesus. Print the bookmarks of card stock, cut in thirds, use a hole punch on the top, and add a festive ribbon. Share a bookmark and the J.I.N.G.L.E. tips with two friends.

© 2018 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

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