Peace At Christmas

Yesterday we talked about ways to keep Christ as the main point of our Christmas.  Today I wanted to talk about peace.  The holidays are so very hectic.  From early November until the first of January people are running around like crazy!  When my kids were a really small we went to four houses (not including celebrating at home) on Christmas day.  It felt so rushed.  The kids would become tired and cranky from all of the running.  I became tired and cranky from the running.  That is something I do not want ever again.  The holidays are supposed to be a celebration of Christ, not a mad dash to do all, see all, spend all.  I want this Christmas to be peaceful.   

So how can we simplify this busy time?  Here are a few ideas:

1. Take a moment to make a list of what needs to be done over the holidays.  Then go through the list and prioritize.  Those things towards the bottom of the list, really pray about how important they are.  If it is not something that must get done, scratch it off! 
2. If you get numerous invitations to Christmas parties, try to limit how many you accept.  It is okay to say no. 
3. When purchasing gifts, think about limiting the number of gifts you buy per person.  After all, Christmas is not about receiving, it is about Christ.  You can even buy 'family' gifts (such as games, movies passes, gift cards for movies at home and a bag of popcorn, etc) instead of a bunch of individual gifts. 
4. If you go to more than a couple places on Christmas day, talk to those you celebrate with and see if any of those can be moved to Christmas Eve or even joined together. 
5. If you send out Christmas cards and include a Christmas letter, think about not doing the letter.  These days we keep up with those we love through facebook and texting, so much of what you would put in a letter, they already know.  By not doing the letter, you save time and money.
6. If you are a housewife staying at home with the little ones, take an afternoon off!  Light the fireplace, turn the lights down, grab a blanket and snuggle up while watching a Christmas movie.
7. When baking your Christmas treats, don't be too serious!  Turn up the Christmas music and let the kids help.  It can be a fun time for the whole family.
8. Through all of the hustle and bustle be sure to have at least one night at home every week. Make that a night to have dinner with your spouse and kids at the dinner table, relax a little, and go to bed early. (this is also important during those busy sports seasons with the kiddos)

I accepted a Peace challenge from Courtney over at Women Living Well.  One of her ideas I really love is buying a large candle and placing it some where in the home where you will walk by it often.  Light it each morning and every time you walk by, stop and pray that God would fill your home with peace and help you to keep your focus on Him.  Check out her blog for some more ideas on having a peaceful Christmas season.

Let's keep Christ at the top of our list and make this season peaceful.  Please comment below with ways you keep the peace at Christmas.

Sweet Blessings~