Have you seen the movie, “Christmas with the Kranks”? It is hilarious!
With their only daughter away with the Peace Corps over Christmas, Luther and Nora Krank decide to “skip” Christmas and go away on a cruise. Their decision to boycott the holiday has the neighborhood in an uproar.
This movie is hilarious because it is so relate-able! I can identify with all of the crazy details that we can get caught up in over Christmas- the cards, decorations, parties, lights….losing sight of WHAT Christmas is really about. Sometimes we can become so overwhelmed with the activities, forgetting that Christmas is remembering and celebrating the birth of Christ.
One of my favorite Christmas traditions that I got from the book, "Redeeming the Season,"
is called “Gift with Purchase.” Our family spends some time together making simple crafts, like ornaments or jewelry. We make several, usually at least 10-20 items. Then, when we are shopping, we give them to sales clerks, thanking them for working during the holidays. We make sure to include a scripture and message of God’s love through the birth of Jesus.
The reaction of surprise and thankfulness of the clerks is so worth the effort! They love being appreciated.
This season, especially when you have the opportunity to spread Christ’s love with strangers, remember to keep Christ in Christmas. Don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed in the details, but remain in His peace. Help your family to bask in the gift of Jesus….His love, His peace, and His hope.
You don't have to be like the Kranks and try to "escape" all of the hub-ub by "skipping Christmas", but stay grounded on why we are celebrating- the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
