Merry Christmas

It is probably the most uneventful Christmas so far.

I just recently joined my church choir again and as usual, Christmas is the time when everybody goes back home for holiday so choir is quite empty. We're basically down to only 10-15 people.

My two good friends went back home for holiday so I decided to skip going to Christmas Eve service and instead had dinner with my family. My new family (husband and PIL) must have thought it is odd that I spent so much time with church activities. On the other hand, I found it hard to balance between the usual 'extra' choir practise and the family gatherings. So I missed some practices and I left early for today's Christmas gathering to attend church service.

I decided not to buy any presents this year for 2 reasons. First, Christmas is not about buying gifts or Christmas tree. Secondly, I don't really like to shop anyway.

Below is an article that I found interesting and good to follow for next year's Christmas :)


Ten Commandments for Christmas
1. Thou shalt prepare early. Don't wait until the last minute to get into the Christmas spirit.
2. Thou shalt keep Christ at the center of Christmas. Don't allow yourself to be overwhelmed by the commercialism of the season. Resolve to read one of the Gospels during December. Mediate upon what it means that Christ came into the world.
3. Thou shalt make Christmas a family time. Do things together: Decorate the tree, play games, bake cookies, shop, write cards, have devotionals, go caroling, attend church together.
4. Thou shalt remember those who are less fortunate. Contribute significantly to an organization serving the needs of others throughout the year. Give a Christmas gift to your church.
5. Thou shalt give thyself with every gift. Put some thought into the gifts you purchase. Give a gift that represents you. If possible, make something instead of buying something.
6. Thou shalt learn to be a good receiver. Many of us have trouble receiving graciously and gracefully.
7. Thou shalt put music into Christmas. Buy several Christmas CD's and play them again and again. Attend church choir cantatas and special Christmas programs. Sing carols with loved ones.
8. Thou shalt slow down. Remember: Christmas is supposed to be a season of peace, not hypertension.
9. Thou shalt remember to worship. The church is the place you are most likely to be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas.
10. Thou shalt receive Christ into thy life. Don't just talk about the Christ of Christmas, receive him into your life as Lord and Savior.