10 Ways to Celebrate Christ!
When meeting with friends recently, I wanted to share thoughts to encourage and uplift them. I wanted our time together to be one of celebration as we stepped into this special Christmas season.
As I prayed, God gave me this verse and as I read it in many versions, I loved The Message paraphrase which I shared with the women.
“Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can
to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them.
Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!” (Philippians 4:4)
Are you reveling in God? What does that really look like? “Revel” is defined as, “to enjoy oneself in a lively and noisy way” or “to take intense pleasure and satisfaction in.” Give yourself permission to stop and celebrate and revel in God this Christmas. What would that look like for you?
As you meet with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers are you ready to let them know you are on their side working for them and not against them? How would it change your attitude as you go to every meeting, party, event, and activity looking for opportunities to communicate your support and encouragement to those you meet?
Do we realize or take time to be aware that Jesus Christ Himself is about to arrive and could show up at any minute? Pause and think about that for a minute. What are you doing today to both celebrate Him and prepare for His coming?
The following are some suggestions:
1. Begin the Morning with Celebration
Before your feet hit the floor in the morning, praise God for one or more of His character qualities and how He has shown you Himself in these ways —His goodness, lovingkindness, faithfulness, or strength.
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24
2. Practice God’s Presence Over Life’s Pressure
Slow down. Notice God’s presence. Take three “holy pauses” throughout the day to breathe, pray, and focus your heart on God with thanksgiving for who He is.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
3. Speak Life Everywhere You Go
Intentionally encourage someone every day making it clear you’re “on their side.” Reen rarely leaves a store or his seat at a restaurant without acknowledging, speaking the name of, and encouraging the person who waits on us with a sincere compliment. Why not try consciously doing this with everyone we meet every day?
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11
4. Secretly Serve Someone
Let your actions demonstrateyou’re working for others, not against them. Commend one person to another. Boast in their accomplishments, not yours. Support them in the project or work they are trying to do with positive affirming words.
“Through love serve one another.” — Galatians 5:13
5. Celebrate Small Wins With God
Train your heart to recognize God’s activity in life’s moments. A friend recently spoke of missing a terrible accident at the last moment when the other car suddenly shifted away. I said out loud, “ Praise God! I’m so glad He was with you and protected you.” Acknowledge God’s work in your life and that of others. Give Him credit and praise.
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord… I will meditate on all Your works.” — Psalm 77:11–12
6. Bring God Into Your Gatherings
Make celebrations holy. Invite God into conversations. Ask a simple spiritual question like “What’s one thing you’re grateful to God for this year?”
“Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” — Matthew 18:20
7. Live Anticipating Jesus’ Second Coming
Let the reality that Jesus could return at any moment shape your choices. Before making decisions, ask: “Would I be ready if Jesus returned right now?” Ask Him who He desires you to be and what He desires you to do each day as you prepare for His arrival.
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” — Matthew 25:13
8. Share the Story of Jesus
It’s Christmas. People are more open to hearing news of Jesus now than ever. Find a natural, loving way to share why Jesus matters to you. When others share Christmas traditions, include how Christ has changed your life.
“Always be prepared to give an answer… for the hope that you have.” — 1 Peter 3:15
9. Extend Extra Grace
Emotions run high at this time of year. Salespeople are tired, weary shoppers can be irritable, and family members stressed. Determine to choose patience, compassion, and understanding—even when you may not feel like it yourself.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other…” — Ephesians 4:32
10. Close Each Day With Reflection & Anticipation
End the day doing two things. Celebrate God’s nearness throughout the day and consider ways to anticipate His return by spending more time reading God’s Word, talking with Him in prayer, and helping others with their needs whether physical or emotional.
“Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! — Revelation 22:20
