Article By Natalie Holloway // Holidays // EEW Magazine Online

Now that Thanksgiving is officially over, what’s on lots of folks’ minds? You already guessed it: Christmas!

Millions are gearing up for December 25th festivities and are hoping “the most wonderful time of the year” lives up to its reputation for bringing good cheer despite the challenges and hardships 2020 has brought to our doorsteps.

If you’re among the many people making preparations to ensure that this holiday is as merry and bright as possible, there are 3 important things to remember.

#1 Jesus will always be the greatest gift. As Christians, we must work extra hard not to be consumed by consumerism. For us, Christmas is not just about decking the halls and giving and receiving gifts, though we enjoy those things just as much as the next person. We know that Jesus Christ, who came into the world to save us from sin and redeem us back to God, is the greatest gift of all time. Keep Him as the focus of the season.

#2 You are fortunate to be alive. At the time of writing, COVID-19 is responsible for over 268,000 deaths and more than 13.5 million confirmed infections in the United States. Many did not survive the pandemic, not to mention other diseases and tragedies that have left families grieving devastating losses. If you receive nothing at all for Christmas, thank God for the gift of life. Tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

#3 Someone is not as blessed as you are. In November, 742,000 Americans were seeking unemployment aid. Food banks were overflowing. For those with no steady income, bills are mounting and options are limited. If you have a roof over your head, food on the table, and a budget for Christmas festivities – even if it’s a small one – someone is not as blessed as you are. Be thankful, and consider donating to a good cause to help those in need.

Keeping these few things in mind will put you in a different headspace and help you approach the Christmas season the right way: with joy and gratitude mixed with soberness and awareness.

As you reflect on the goodness of God this holiday season, say a prayer for the grieving families that will be missing a loved one, for the struggling families that don’t have extra cash to splurge on the latest deals, and for those who are battling coronavirus, praying that they will be alive to see Christmas day.

The more mindful we are of others, the better able we are to spread kindness, love, and true Christmas cheer.