Jesus, the Light of the World, has come into our lives! Christmas is not just a single day but a season—a time set aside to reflect on the miracle of the Incarnation and to rejoice in the hope it brings. For twelve glorious days, we are invited to celebrate Christmastide, immersing ourselves in the beauty, joy, and wonder of Christ’s birth.
This is a season to live richly and fully, filling our homes with light, music, feasting, and love. It is a time to pause and consider the profound truth that God took on human flesh and dwelt among us, not just as a historical event but as a living reality. Christmas calls us to deepen our relationship with Jesus, to allow His presence to transform our hearts, and to share His love with others.
As the world moves on from Christmas Day, quickly packing away decorations and returning to its usual pace, we, as Christians, remain in celebration. For twelve days, from Christmas to Epiphany, we sing carols, feast, visit loved ones, and marvel at the light of Christ breaking into the darkness of our lives and our world. For my guidebook walking you through celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas in your home, click here.
Ways to Celebrate
The season of Christmastide invites us to live richly and joyously for twelve holy days, fully embracing the joy of Christ’s birth. Here are some beautiful ways to celebrate:
Don’t Take Down Your Holiday Decorations: Christmas Day is just the beginning of the season! Keep your Christmas tree, wreaths, and decorations up throughout Christmastide. Let the beauty of your holiday home remind you that the joy of Christ’s birth continues for twelve days.
Light Your Advent Wreath with the Christ Candle: Continue lighting your Advent candles each evening, adding the Christ Candle in the center to symbolize Jesus, the Light of the World. Let this act center your family in prayer and gratitude for the miracle of Christmas.
Finally Sing Christmas Carols! After waiting through Advent, now is the time to sing carols with joy! Whether you gather around the piano, sing as a family, or play your favorite carols on a playlist, let the music of Christmas fill your home. Here’s a beautiful playlist of Christmas carols to accompany your celebration!
Add Baby Jesus to your Nativity Set: If you've been doing a progressive Nativity Scene where you slowly gather the figures according to the biblical story, add Baby Jesus to the scene and slowly move the Wise Men so that they arrive at Baby Jesus on Twelfth Night.
Bake and Feast: Christmastide is a time for celebration! Bake your favorite Christmas desserts, make traditional treats, and share festive meals with loved ones. Feast in a way that reflects the abundant joy of the season.
Sing the “12 Days of Christmas”: Have fun singing this beloved song, and use it to remind yourself and your family that the celebration of Christmas is ongoing.
Give Generously: Show the love of Christ by serving the poor, sharing meals, or donating to those in need. Even small acts of kindness, like leaving extra rations for your animals, reflect the generosity of the season.
Enjoy the Beauty of Christmas: Go on long walks, visit loved ones, and read your favorite Christmas books. Let this be a time of togetherness, reflection, and rest as you savor the meaning of the season.
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