Northview Blog How To Get Into the Christmas Spirit December 8, 2020 Christmas is honestly my favorite time of year. I love the lights, the time spent with family and the way people show kindness to one another. This year, with the pandemic, it is much harder to get into the holiday spirit—and that is all the more reason to find ways to focus on joy and contentment. Here are some suggestions for spreading cheer this Christmas.Remember the Reason for the SeasonFirst and foremost, it is important to remember the reason for the season. Staying in the Word is vital all year around, but given the nature of our circumstances right now, it is especially crucial. It is also an opportunity to share the Word with those we love. One of the best ways we can love the people in our lives is to share God’s Word. COVID-19 has, if nothing else, created a great opportunity to share the great news about Christ. Consider hosting a Northview Watch Party with the online Northview Church services. Connect with Loved OnesAnother way to get into the spirit is by connecting with loved ones (even if it is virtually). Whether it’s family or friends, we are all in this together, and it is so important to spread love with the time we have together. Pick up the phone and call or video chat with those you love. You would be surprised at how your mood changes after talking to those you care about. Surprise SomeoneAnother great idea is to surprise your loved ones with an unexpected gift. Send a spontaneous text message or e-gift to brighten someone's day. They will love it, and you will feel great, too! We were made for companionship and fellowship; we were not created to be alone in this world.Find a Way to ServeAs volunteering is especially hard this year, it is a great opportunity to find other ways to serve the community. Donate to a charity that you support, adopt a family through an organization that allows virtual gifts or write Christmas cards to the troops overseas. A little love during this time can go such a long way.Whatever you do this holiday season to create cheer and make memories, remember to do it all in love as Christ first loved us. This period of struggle will end, and one day we will all look back on this as a time of self-reflection, change and growth. Be safe this holiday season, however and wherever you celebrate. by Meredith Trapper Relationships Culture Spiritual Growth