Do you have a system for Christmas?

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Luke 2:11-12

A Seasonal Challenge

With only six days remaining until Christmas, it’s easy to find ourselves caught up in the hustle and bustle. One of the greatest challenges of the season is to slow down and be truly thankful. We know what’s important, but our schedules often become so packed with commitments that we find ourselves eager to return to our pre-holiday routines.

The Year for Broken Hearts

I was recently talking with a funeral director who said the time between Thanksgiving and the New Year is his busiest time of the year, and a large portion of those who pass away are the elderly. The director said he believes many elderly people become so discouraged by a lack of engagement from friends and family that they essentially die of a broken heart.

Caught in the Chaos

Every year, I have good intentions to do better, but I still allow myself to get caught up in the chaos. I realized that I never had a plan or a system. Remember: “We don’t rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our systems.” So, here is my simple plan for Christmas 2025:

1. Devote time each morning to growing my understanding of the Christmas story.

2. Take time each evening to contact a member of my extended family.

3. Deliver a Christmas treat in person to the elderly or shut-ins.

4. Keep cash in my wallet to give to someone in need and pray for discernment on when to use it.

Spread the Joy

We all have so much to be thankful for. Please use this holiday season to spread the joy of our Savior’s birth. There are many people in your network of friends and family who would love a bit of your time.

Roger Smithson

MD5 Facilitator