What is Christmas About?

In the classic movie, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Charlie Brown becomes very discouraged. His friends are focused on gifts, lights and the Christmas play, and it all feels very commercial to Charlie Brown. He exclaims, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” His best friend Linus steps in, quoting Luke 2, sharing about the birth of Jesus. Our culture loves the superficial parts of Christmas but doesn’t celebrate the true reason for the holiday. Your kids likely focused on many other things during this season. Take every opportunity in your family to keep the focus on Jesus. Consider a family advent resource, read Luke 2 together, or find ways to serve others.  You can help your kids learn that the very best thing to happen to us is the whole reason we celebrate Christmas.

Here’s how we discussed this topic and how you can discuss it at home: 

Discuss: What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?

Discuss: Why do you think most people celebrate Christmas?

Discuss: What is Christmas really about?

Say: People all over the world celebrate Christmas. While they may know that the holiday is about Jesus’ birth, many people don’t focus on that. Decorations, presents, parties and so many other things become the focus. People may talk about “peace” and “joy” during this season, but not everyone realizes that peace and joy come from Jesus, not from gifts. Some people believe Christmas is all about family. Family is very important, and spending time with them at Christmas is a good thing. Too often we focus on all of the good things about Christmas without truly focusing on WHO Christmas is all about. Isaiah 9:6 reminds us: For unto us a Child is born. What are some ways you could focus on Jesus this Christmas season?