Christmas is coming. What will your family do to draw closer to God during this festive season?

In chapter 77 of the book *The Adventist Home*, we find several guidelines on how we should behave and what we could do during this time of year. It is quite clear to us Christians that even though it may not be the exact date of Christ's birth, it should not be overlooked.

We can take advantage of December and the Christmas holiday to engage in at least three types of activities that will bring great spiritual growth to the family. The first of these involves serving others:

“The Christmas and New Year festivities can and should be celebrated for the benefit of the needy. God is glorified when we help the needy who have large families to support.”

*The Adventist Home*, 482

In previous years, Project Restore posted several activity tips on the blog; check out the articles here.

We should also use Christmas to exalt the name of Jesus through songs, our offerings, and the study of His Word.

“Brothers and sisters, while you are planning to give gifts to one another, I wish to remind you of our heavenly Friend, so that you do not overlook His claims. He will be pleased if we show that we have not forgotten Him. Jesus, the Prince of life, gave everything to place salvation within our reach. ... He suffered even unto death, that He might give us eternal life.  

“It is through Christ that we receive all blessings. ... Should not our heavenly Benefactor partake of the proofs of our gratitude and love? Come, brothers and sisters, come with your children, even the infants in your arms, and bring offerings to God according to your means. Sing to the Lord in your heart, and let His praise be on your lips.” *The Adventist Home*, 480

How about taking this opportunity to study Jesus' life and the prophecies related to His first coming to the world more deeply with your children? If you'd like to join a WhatsApp group that will be doing an Advent Journey throughout December, click here to join and receive daily short study guides.

Last year, our family combined the idea of helping others with studying prophecies. We invited a family from our community with teenage children for dinner at our home. After the meal, we held a special worship service and studied some biblical prophecies about Jesus' birth with them. It was an unforgettable moment for them and for us. If you wish to do the same this Christmas, click here to download the study we used.

Merry Christmas and happy studying!

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