By Nicole Brown
As Christmas approaches, our calendars fill, our to-do lists grow, and the pressure to create the “perfect Christmas” works its way into our hearts. Between shopping, travel, family gatherings, and the swirl of expectations coming from every direction, it can be easy to forget why we celebrate at all.
But what if this year looked different? What if instead of focusing on crafting the perfect season, we focused on cultivating a meaningful one — a season shaped by gratitude, presence, and the peace that comes from walking closely with Christ?
Slowing down the holiday hustle
The world tells us to hurry. Scripture tells us to be still.
During Jesus’ ministry, we often see Him stepping away to pray, reflect, and realign with the Father. If the Savior of the world prioritized pausing, shouldn’t we?
As the holiday rush begins, we can choose to anchor our days in quiet moments with God. It doesn’t have to be elaborate — five minutes of prayer while the coffee brews, a worship song on the drive to work, or a whispered thank-You before bed. These small shifts re-center our hearts and soften our spirits.
The holidays are not about how much we get done — they are about how open we are to receiving what God has for us.
Finding purpose in everyday moments
One of the beautiful things about the Christmas story is that God used ordinary people in an extraordinary way. Mary, a young girl. Joseph, a humble carpenter. Shepherds working the night shift. None of them were influential by worldly standards.
God still reveals His glory in the everyday. He is present:
- In the kitchen, while you prepare dinner for your family
- In the car, singing Christmas songs with your kids
- In the late-night gift wrapping sessions
- In the quiet moments after everyone has gone to bed
- In the laughter shared during holiday gatherings
Our lives don’t need to look perfect to be purposeful. God is woven into every moment when we invite Him into the center of it.
Practicing hospitality from the heart
Hospitality isn’t about having the prettiest tablescape or the most aesthetically pleasing home — it’s about creating space for people to feel seen, loved, and welcome. True hospitality is not performance. It’s ministry.
It’s the warm hug at the door.
The extra seat at the table for someone who has nowhere else to go.
The intentional check-in with a friend who’s grieving or overwhelmed.
The simple prayer asking God to fill your home with peace and joy.
This kind of heart-led hosting leaves a deeper impact than decor ever could.
When the holidays feel heavy
For many, this season is tender. Some are navigating loss, loneliness, or life transitions. Some feel financial pressure or unmet expectations. If this is you, please remember: You don’t have to “feel festive” to be faithful.
The same Jesus who entered the world in the quiet of a stable meets us gently in our quiet places, too. He draws near to the brokenhearted, comforts the weary, and reminds us that Emmanuel means God with us — not just in the joyful moments but in the painful ones as well.
Let this be a season where you let yourself rest in His presence. Trust that He can hold both the beauty and the burden.
Creating a Christ-centered Christmas
This year, consider setting one simple intention: Invite Jesus into every part of your holiday season.
Invite Him into your planning.
Invite Him into your gatherings.
Invite Him into your traditions.
Invite Him into your heart — every rushed, imperfect, hopeful part of it.
When we shift our focus from producing Christmas to experiencing Christ, the entire season transforms. There is more peace, more gratitude, more joy, and more meaning woven into each moment. The holidays become less about impressing others and more about expressing God’s love.
Wishing you and yours the merriest (and calmest) holiday season!
With gratitude,
Nicole
A final note
If you’re looking for thoughtful, meaningful, budget-friendly gifts for the loved ones in your life, I’ve curated gift guides to make your shopping easier and more joyful. You can shop on my website, leliassoutherncharm.com, or download the free LTK app and search for “leliassoutherncharm” to follow along for daily gift inspo. You can also find me on any social platform as @leliassoutherncharm.
Nicole Brown, the creative force behind Lelia’s Southern Charm, channels her passion for fashion into inspiring content, sharing her latest finds, Pinterest-worthy outfits, and local favorites. When not curating her digital closet, she’s exploring new destinations and cultivating a community that celebrates finding the joy in the everyday! Find her at LeliasSouthernCharm.com, @leliassoutherncharm on Instagram or TikTok, and Lelia’s Southern Charm on Facebook and Pinterest.