Yes, it is the last month of the year 2020. December is a month expected by many, especially children, Christmas. It is also a time to remember or look back on what has happened in the past few months and a time to plan for the year 2021. During the past few months we have been faced with tremendous trials, troubles, problems and natural calamities (individually, in the family, in the community and in our country).
But how can we celebrate this season in the midst of the pandemic? The question that many ask themselves.
Let’s pause for a moment and contemplate the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Savior and Lord. (Isaiah 9:6 “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us, and the principality on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace ”.). He came to this earth to willingly die for our sins on the cross. Yes, that’s right, because he loved us so much (John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”)
So in the midst of the presents/gifts, amazing Christmas decorations and Christmas lights, very relaxing Christmas music and Christmas parties, remember that JESUS is the reason for the season. It’s Jesus Christ’s birthday! The best gift that we can give to JESUS is our life and the Lord requires us to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8).
Therefore, it is worth celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, that is, in the course of difficult times or pandemic times we are continually experiencing his goodness and faithfulness in our lives. Every day is a great blessing from Him. Let’s thank God for it.
One way to celebrate Christmas amid the pandemic is to start a christmas party online with families and friends.
1. Set a date and time to meet online.
2. Prepare the following
A. Program flow
sample:
I. Opening/Welcome Remarks
II. initial prayer
3rd Christmas Worship Songs
IV. Christmas word of encouragement
V. Christmas reflection
SAW. Games / Video Presentation / Virtual Exchange Gift
VIII. online raffles
VIII. concluding sentence
b. Games
Sample games:
A. Single game
“Bring to me” The concept is simple and the variation is endless. The game master will randomly request items/items. The first person who can take a photo and post it to the chat box will be the winner.
” What is in the box?“The game master will prepare boxes with something inside, give some clue what is inside the box. The first one who can chat with the correct answer will get the prize.
“Biblical Exercise: Find the Word” the game master will prepare some words that come from the bible (so that the participants prepare their individual bible with the same version that the game master will use). Example: Game Master: What is the sixteenth word in Isaiah 9:6? Participants will open their bible and search for the 16th word in Isaiah 9:6, the first person to type the correct answer in the chat box will be the winner. In this verse the word 16 is GOVERNMENT.
B. Group game
“Group Christmas carols“The game master will divide the group (easy if you’re using the zoom app) and assign them a Christmas song and melody. Give the group 10 minutes to gather in the breakout rooms and practice for their presentation.
against online sweepstakes (you can use the online random name picker app)
d. awards that many can enjoy (prices are sent by you via any available courier service at your location)
my. Video presentation with Christmas song (Optional: images that remind you of God’s goodness in the year 2020 or a memorable moment that impacts your 2020)
F. Virtual Gift Exchange or Mood Exchange (word of encouragement to all)
May this article help you have a nice Christmas celebration online. The pandemic or social distancing cannot stop us from celebrating this season.
It is my prayer that you have a CHRIST-centered Christmas celebration and a blessed 2021 to come!