Today’s Verse
Matthew 6:33 – But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Thoughts for Today
There are plenty of ways to seek the kingdom of heaven during the Christmas season. For instance, some Catholic traditions include attending Mass, setting up the Nativity scene, gift giving, Advent, singing Christmas carols, decorating with lights, and cooking Christmas treats and meals. It’s important to make an honest effort to enjoy the holiday festivities with a grateful heart, because your holiday season will be more meaningful and positive.
Consider This…
Getting involved in Catholic traditions for the Christmas season will likely be one of the most joyful times of your life. Besides this, be sure to spend time with family and friends to keep your spirits up. In fact, you can ask them to sing carols with you, even if it’s from a distance. No matter what, be cheerful and best of all, be yourself.
If you don’t have anyone to spend the holidays with or just enjoy spending most of your time alone, there are plenty of ways you can gain comfort and joy. For example, consider volunteering for a cause you’re passionate about. Ideas you can try are writing a blog for a nonprofit organization, sending gifts or cards to kids with cancer and making toys for shelter pets, among others. By selflessly giving your time and effort to those less fortunate, you have the chance to gain a sense of purpose and meaning.
One of the best things you can do is be grateful for animals. For one, treat your pets like your best friends and you’ll gain unconditional love. Additionally, you can treat your dog, cat or other pet like family by giving them homemade Christmas treats, giving them presents, and keeping them warm, safe and fed at all times. You can also pray for all of the animals that don’t have anyone to care about them. Another way to help is to donate to an animal welfare charity or adopt an animal.
You can bring warmth into your household by being traditional. Decorate the Christmas tree with glee, bake delicious treats for everyone or cuddle up next to a warm fire with a toasty cup of hot cocoa. In addition to this, get everyone involved in setting up the Nativity scene to create a traditional environment or make an Advent wreath together. Give gifts that truly matter to show how special the people are in your life. You can donate to a worthy cause in someone’s name, make a warm sweater for them to wear or buy a handmade item from their favorite shop.
Remember to have the best of intentions towards those you love. Taking care of yourself first always makes it easier to care about those who truly matter. With a bit of positivity and goodwill towards others, your days will be brighter and merrier. You and your family deserve to have the best Christmas ever every year. Consider extending your good fortune to others, such as neighbors or the elderly, by treating them with kindness and respect. Not everyone has family or friends who are there when they need them the most. Being kind to those less fortunate is possibly the best way to bring God into your life and theirs.
Prayer
Isaiah 9:6 – 9:7
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.