Don’t Miss the Moment: What the First Christmas Teaches Us About Investing in the Next Generation

Slow Down: What This Generation Really Needs This Christmas

Christmas has a way of slowing us down… at least for a moment.

Between the wrapping paper, the lights, the shopping, and the Christmas playlists, there are usually at least a few seconds of silence—whether it’s late at night next to the tree or early morning before the house wakes up—when we remember what this season is truly about.

A Savior came.

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son…” -Galatians 4:4

That phrase, “the fullness of time,” means Jesus came at the exact right moment. Not too soon. Not too late. God moved right when it mattered most.

This Christmas, as we reflect on that first moment, I believe we’re being challenged in this one. Because whether you’re a parent, a pastor, a teacher, or a friend—the next generation is watching us.

WHAT THIS GENERATION REALLY NEEDS THIS SEASON

Here’s what teens and kids don’t need more of this Christmas:

• More stuff
• More noise
• More shiny distractions

Here’s what they do need:

• Presence over presents
• To see faith lived out, not just talked about
• Hope they can hold onto
• Honest conversations
• Someone who will listen longer than they speak
• A picture of Jesus more than a pile of gifts

The first Christmas was simple. Quiet. Sacred. Maybe this one should be, too.

3 PRACTICAL WAYS TO INVEST IN THE NEXT GENERATION THIS CHRISTMAS

1. Create space for conversation, not just celebration.
Turn off the TV. Put aside the phones. Ask questions like:

• What’s one thing you’re grateful for this year?
• What’s been hard?
• What are you hoping for next year?

You may be surprised what comes out when the room quiets down.

2. Share your faith story this Christmas.
The shepherds didn’t keep quiet—they told everyone what they saw.

Let the next generation hear:

• How you came to know Jesus
• Why your faith matters
• What God has been teaching you lately

They don’t need perfection. They need authenticity.

3. Model peace in a season of pressure.
Stress is contagious—but so is peace.

Slow down long enough to enjoy a moment—by the tree, in prayer, in the car while driving home—and invite them into it.

You can’t pass on what you don’t possess.

A FINAL WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Parents — you’re doing better than you think.
Leaders — the seeds you’re planting matter more than you know.
Mentors — your presence speaks louder than your perfection.

Don’t underestimate small moments this season. God used a manger. A silent night. A baby. He still uses simple things to change lives.

Let’s not rush past what Christmas invites us into. Let’s slow down. Let’s lean in. Let’s invest where it truly counts.

Because at just the right time… God shows up.

Merry Christmas,
‍Ryan