Pastor Aaron Perdue

Let’s look at how to keep Christ at the center of your Christmas here in Colorado Springs. Whether you’re new to town or have been living here for years, many local activities can help you focus on Jesus Christ, the true meaning of Christmas.

The Heart Behind a Christ-Centered Christmas

We don’t want to turn Christmas into an endless shopping spree full of festivities and food, often forgetting about Jesus, who left the comfort and splendor of heaven to come down to earth and be humbly born in a manger. He chose to live a sinless life and die as the sacrifice for our sins to make a way for us to receive eternal life. Christmas is about Jesus’ mission of love and sacrifice. 

Letting Generosity Lead the Season

This Christmas, you and your family could consider doing something new, such as volunteering to serve others at the Colorado Springs Rescue Mission or Crossfire Ministries. These organizations offer special opportunities to bless others during the holidays by giving your time. Don’t forget about people in your neighborhood who could use some help with their yard or house. As you sacrificially give, you keep Christ at the center of Christmas!

Acts 20:35 says, “…And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” In anticipation of receiving Christmas presents, help your children sort through their toys and clothes and donate the items to a needy family. There are several thrift stores in town, but here are two that benefit local ministries: Life Network Family Thrift Store (supporting Life Network and Colorado Springs Pregnancy Center) and Crossfire Ministries Thrift Store. When you and your family develop a habit of going through your things and setting aside unused or outgrown items, you can also focus on gratitude for your many blessings. Thankfulness is always a good antidote to the greed that can creep into the holiday consumerism.

Giving to others takes the focus off ourselves and reminds us that Christ gave the ultimate gift of paying for our sins. If you and your family like to make decorations and ornaments, make some Christ-centered items and share them with a local nursing home. You could also bake some cookies and take them to the local police or fire station. 

If you start to feel overwhelmed this holiday season, Proverbs 11:25 offers the answer to holiday burnout: “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” As you spend time giving to others, you will feel refreshed.

Let Music Point Your Heart Toward Jesus

Nothing gets me in the mood for Christmas quite like holiday music. The “Heart of Christmas” is a wonderful musical performed at Charis Bible College in Woodland Park. This family-friendly event focuses on the true meaning of Christmas through heart-warming characters, engaging story, and powerful songs. Tickets are available (awmi.net or 719-635-1111) for performances December 12–14, 2025.

Traditional Christmas carols have lyrics that explain the message of salvation about Jesus, who 

left heaven on a mission to sacrifice His life so we could have eternal life. Spend time listening 

carefully to the words of some beloved songs, such as “Joy to the World,” “O Come, O Come 

Emmanuel,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “What Child Is This?,” “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “The First Noel,” “Silent Night,” “O Holy Night,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” and 

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” Maybe you and your family love to sing or want to invite your small group to join you in caroling around your neighborhood. Spreading the message of Jesus through songs is a wonderful way to keep Christ at the center of Christmas!

Make Christmas Eve a Time of Worship

I can’t think of a better way to usher in Christmas Day than by spending time on Christmas Eve worshiping God! Churches around town have special Christmas Eve services. I would like to personally invite you to celebrate the season and joy of Christmas with us on December 24 at our special Christmas Eve services! We’re hosting two identical services at both 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. You won’t want to miss this special 1-hour production featuring a gospel message, a traditional Christmas carol sing-along, a presentation by our Charis Creative Arts team, and a special song performed by our very own Charis Kids. Also, join us before and after the services for Christmas music along with some hot chocolate and cookies!

You can also take this Christmas season to reflect on the greatest gift you’ve received—eternal life! If you have never received this wonderful, free gift, please call our prayer line (719-418-4000) and let someone pray with you. Merry Christmas from the pastors and staff at Charis Christian Center!