This Christmas, I encourage you to celebrate by demonstrating agape love, which is God’s unconditional love.
The holiday season is a period of celebration that is spent with loved ones. This Christmas, I encourage you to celebrate by demonstrating agape love, which is God’s unconditional love. Make a decision to give your family a sacrificial offering of yourself, your time, and your undivided attention. Turn your cell phones off and refuse to allow work or other obligations to distract you from spending quality time with your family.

Focus on what makes your loved ones feel unique, whole, accepted, loved and secure. For example, if you have a son who enjoys basketball, have a conversation with him about the sport. Show an interest in what he loves to do. Surprise your son by taking him to a professional game.

In addition, have conversations with your daughter about her favorite things. Find out what she likes or dislikes. Do the same with your spouse. Find out his or her most treasured holiday memories. Is there something you can do to honor those memories? Then allow agape love to guide you in your gift giving.

Taffi and I usually spend Christmas with relatives and friends. We make the holidays memorable by doing exciting things and setting aside time to relax. My wife always comes up with creative ways to celebrate, decorate and give gifts. The food, festive activities, and trips are such a divine experience that keep getting better each year!

Here are some of our family’s ideas for creating new traditions and wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. I encourage you to get your entire family involved.

1. Teach your children the true meaning of Christmas by reading the account of the birth of Jesus from the first and second chapters of Matthew and Luke 2:1-20.
2. Celebrate Jesus by throwing Him a party. Bake Him a cake and sing “Happy Birthday.”
3. Do holiday craft projects together. Make a Christmas wreath for your home. Create special ornaments for your Christmas tree.
4. Go on family outings. Take a neighborhood trip to see how others have decorated their homes. Go caroling or watch holiday themed movies.
5. Celebrate Jesus by attending the cantatas, plays, or services at your church.
6. Teach your children it is better to give than to receive by volunteering at homeless shelters or handing out toys at children’s hospitals and orphanages. Get involved in local Angel Tree projects and make it one of your family traditions.

I remember when I used to rush to get certain things done in a timely manner. But I have realized that life is a journey and I am going to enjoy every minute of it! God has blessed me with a tremendously rewarding opportunity to enjoy those who love and celebrate me! Like me, you are building memories! Cherish these times! Make an effort to be creative in the ways you bless your family during the holidays and throughout the year. You would be surprised how a little more effort and creativity can go a long way!

Copyright
Creflo Dollar Ministries