How to Make the Holidays Count!
 
Act Like Men – Men’s Leadership Podcast

Sponsored by Men’s Ministry Catalyst

Podcast Show Notes 

The Holidays, specifically Christmas, is one of the great opportunities for you, your family, and friends to find new insight into the kind of love our Heavenly Father has for us.   Since God made Christmas, He then modeled for us by giving us the best gift possible, and without whom we would not have forgiveness of sins, nor eternal life. Given all of that, it only makes sense to do what we can to find new insights, get out of our routine, and see how God might want to refresh you with a new perspective during the holiday season this year.    

Let’s take a look at some ideas through which you can be intentional and see how God wants to Bless you, your family, and those around you.   

1. Give God a special gift just from you to Him.   That gift could be the forgiveness of someone who wronged you.  It could be to commit to spending time alone with God and focus on the Christmas story and what it might mean to you.  
2. Set time to read the Christmas story with your family or friends:  Luke 1:5-56 and includes 2:1-20.  Take time to discuss this story.   How does this story impact you, your family, and any friends you speak with?   
3. Find a group to go Christmas caroling – in your neighborhood, with your Life Group, in an Assisted Living Center,  or just a carol sign with your group.    I know – men caroling??  Whether you can sing or not, those to whom you sing will be blessed and it will in turn bless you and your family.  
4. Give a surprise gift of service to each member of your family, perhaps a neighbor, or members of your Life Group.    Jesus set a great example of service, especially when He washed the feet of His disciples. 
5. Attend a Christmas program together at church or a Christmas concert.  It is important to spend time discussing what you just experienced.  
6. Whatever you do, plan for it, and intentionally make the experience count for you, your family, or your friends.   Whether it is trying to add a new tradition to your holiday habits, focusing on being thankful during the season, taking time to slow down, or expanding your holiday options to enjoy the reason for the season, do it intentionally this year.  This season, like every other season, will be gone before you know it.   

Some things to think about as it pertains to the Holidays: 

1. As you think about your traditional holiday plans and processes, what one thing you are doing now that adds to the spiritual enjoyment of the holidays?  
2. As you review the list we just discussed, what one thing stands out to you that you want to incorporate into your holiday?
3. What is one of these areas that will not work for you this year, but an idea for next year?
4. The key to spiritually enjoying this Holiday season if you to start now.  

Just a reminder these podcasts are released on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month.   For additional podcasts or resources go to:  

https://www.mensministrycatalyst.org/podcasts/