“You are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed. . . .”
—Luke 10:41–42 NKJV

Practical Strategies for a Simpler Christmas

• Being together is what counts, not the perfection of your surroundings. (Jesus’ birth did not depend on fancy decorations, cleanliness of the house, or gourmet goodies.)
• Don’t cram in too many organized activities. (The ability to relax and be comfortable lend to happy times together.)
• Unrealistic expectations of making crafts and holiday baking can rob you of the enjoyment of the Christmas celebration. (Quiet times can offer more opportunity for remembering the reason for the season.)
• Try shortening your Christmas card list by sending cards to the people you do not see regularly. (Think about sending cards to half your list on Valentine’s Day or Easter and reversing the list the next year).
• Begin each day in prayer by offering the day back to the One who gave us the greatest gift. (Having and keeping the right perspective of whose day it is can alter our attitudes and conduct.)

We don’t have to let the busyness of the season rule our hearts. We can be less like Martha and more like Mary, who relaxed in the Lord’s presence. Ultimately, only one thing is essential to our Christmas celebration: Jesus!