How to Prepare for the Christmas Crunch

Christmas! It happens every year and it's wonderful. For ministers it is our opportunity to create experiences and remind people of God's love through the birth of His son, Jesus. 

There is something different about the Christmas season that draws people to Church. Whether it is a Christmas caroling event, gingerbread contest, pictures with Santa, Nativity drive thru or something else, people are more open to going to Church event than most any other time of the year. And while that is great, it creates a sort of Christmas crunch for ministers. For a period of 25-30 days there are so much to do which can create an added stress and pressure on ministers to be at places and do way more than normal. 

So, as great as this time of year is, if ministers are not careful, it can be a really challenging time of year. Here are 4 things ministers can do right now to help them have a great Christmas season while also 

Pray. Pray for God's guidance and direction. There is so much you and your Church can do, especially now that you are more comfortable digitally and phygitally. If you do spend time praying for God to guide you this season, you will get caught up in doing a lot of "good" things, not godly things. 

Set boundaries. Because there are lots more you can do during this season, it is easy to get caught up in it all and you end up working way more hours than you should. We live in a digital world today where you can be reached anytime and be working at any time. The reality is that during this time of year you will likely work more hours than normal, but if you don't set up boundaries and create some non-negotiables you will be toast by the new year. So set boundaries and delegate what you can so that all that needs to be accomplished can be without you working way more than you should.

Make family memories. This time of year is special, especially for your own family members. Make sure you don't work so much that you miss out on making family memories. Your family is your legacy. Yes, you will have to work more this season, but that doesn't mean you can't and shouldn't make time for your family this Christmas. Make some great memories with them. 

Work hard. You can set boundaries and delegate a lot during this time, but you are still going to have to work hard. You are going to have to put in some extra time and work some odd hours. 

Christmas is an amazing time of the year! God is celebrated and a savior is born! Hallelujah! Cling to Christ this Christmas season, set some healthy boundaries, make memories with your family and work hard. When we do this, the Christmas crunch produces so much more fruit, at home and at work, than we ever thought possible. 

What do you think? What are you doing to prepare for the Christmas crunch? Share your ideas below or on social media.

Also, if you are interested in being a Digital Missionary or want to learn digital tools to expand your reach in ministry this year, j oin the Digital Bootcamp Facebook Group!