Thanksgiving and Christmas are known for bringing families together--whether you get along, agree on political views, share the same religious beliefs or not. During the holiday season, families travel far and wide to be with the ones they love. And while this holiday season will likely look different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, small family gatherings are happening in homes and on virtual screens across the nation. How to share about Jesus during these times is something to consider.
If your family doesn’t share the same religious beliefs as you, you may be interested in finding ways to turn holiday conversations toward Jesus. Christmas, after all, is Jesus’ holiday, even though Santa tries every year to take it from Him.
Whether you will be sitting around the family table for a Thanksgiving meal or virtually opening presents with family from afar, here are 5 tips for how to share about Jesus this holiday season.
1. Share About What Christmas Means to You
One way to open up a conversation about Jesus--and keep the holiday spirit alive--is to talk about what Christmas means to you. Specifically, you can share about the birth of Jesus and how that one event is significant in your life. You may mention how knowing your Savoir has brought joy and freedom and peace into your life--something that has been instrumental this year especially. Or, consider sharing your testimony with family members who haven’t heard it before. By focusing on what Christmas means to you, you can share about Jesus in the spirit of Christmas.
2. Invite Your Family to Your Church’s Christmas Celebration
With the way things are going, it is safe to say that your church’s Christmas celebration is probably going virtual or outdoors this year. But that’s no reason not to invite your family to the service. In fact, it is even more reason! With everything online, even far-away family members can join you at church on Christmas.
Interestingly, even non-believers tend to attend a Christmas eve or Christmas day church service. You can capitalize on this moment by inviting them to yours! Afterward, consider starting a conversation about the message that was shared and offer to answer any questions your family might have.
3. Offer to Say a Prayer Before Your Holiday Meal
Offering to say a prayer before your holiday meal is how to share about Jesus in a group setting. You can offer to pray for the food and your time together. It doesn’t have to be a long or fancy prayer. Even saying a short prayer can set the stage for additional dinner conversations about Jesus. When praying, consider the common needs of your family members and use this as a time to truly bless them with love and encouragement.
4. Wear a Christian T-Shirt or Sweatshirt to Your Family Gathering
Wearing Christian attire to your family’s holiday gathering is how to share about Jesus in a fun, unique way. With All Things By Faith’s large collection of Christmas wear, you can stay festive while wearing a conversation-starter t-shirt or sweatshirt. You may even consider purchasing faith-focused Christmas gifts for your family. With encouraging messages and a variety of designs, there is something for everyone to wear and enjoy.
5. Spread Joy and Cheer with Christmas Music
Do you have a collection of your favorite Christmas songs? Share them with your family! You’d be surprised how many popular Christmas songs that non-believers enjoy actually pertain to Jesus! Play these popular songs while spending time with family. Consider going deeper by talking about what some of the lyrics mean to you. For example, “peace on earth” hits different his year, as our nation--and the world--is dealing with fear and uncertainty around every corner due to COVID.
How to Share About Jesus with Your Friends
If you are having a “Friendsgiving” or spending Christmas with your roommates due to COVID-19 travel restrictions and safety issues, you can still share about Jesus! All of the tips just mentioned are ways to open the conversation about Jesus with anyone this holiday season.
Last Thoughts on How to Share About Jesus this Year
Sharing about Jesus can feel intimidating, especially if your family and friends have openly expressed their unbelief. But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. Remember, God is working in each person’s heart. Your words of encouragement or story about what Christmas means to you may be exactly what someone needs to hear this holiday season.
If you start to feel intimated…
Remember God is with you.
Pray and ask God to give you the right words to say.
When all else fails, choose love.
Jesus is the reason for the season. And Jesus is love. While spending time with family can be joyous, it can also be stressful and uncomfortable at times. By keeping your focus on Jesus, you will find peace and hope and be able to share it with those around you.