BGEA: I'm already dreading Christmas because there's always so much to do, and I just get overwhelmed.

I'm already dreading Christmas because there's always so much to do, and I just get overwhelmed. I know it's wrong, but in recent years I've even ended up hating Christmas. How can I get out of this trap? — D.T.

I suspect most of us have felt this way at one time or another -- but you're right: It's a trap, and we need to do all we can to stay out of it.

After all, Christmas should be a time of joy and peace, because it marks the greatest event in human history: the coming of Jesus Christ into the world. He came from heaven to save us from our sins and give us the gift of eternal life; could anything be more important, or more joyous? The angel's words to the shepherds on that first Christmas night should echo in our hearts every year: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy" (Luke 2:10).

What can you do? First, plan ahead. Don't just think about making plans -- actually make them! Sit down and write out a list of everything you know you'll have to do (including the presents you intend to buy). Then get out your calendar and decide when you'll do them. The more you can get done in advance, the less hassle you'll have at the last minute.

Then set aside time for you and your family to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. You might, for example, take a few minutes after dinner to read about Christ's coming (including prophecies from the Old Testament and the account of His birth from the New Testament). Resolve now to make this Christmas the best you've ever experienced, as you turn your heart and mind to Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.

63 Comments

R Hon says 12.8.2011, 4:37 p.m.

There is no greater love than that of Jesus Christ. Thank you Dr Graham for being such an inspiration and testament to that fact. May this Christmas be your best ever. With love! The Hon's

Diane says 12.8.2011, 11:37 a.m.

Why do we feel that we have to do so much at Christmas! My self I feel that we should be on our hands and knees that day thanking Him for the gift of SALVATION!!!

Diane says 12.8.2011, 11:34 a.m.

My Brother, you are in Gods hands. You have been in His hands for years He has kept you from all evil. Praise the name of Jesus..Now about Christmas I feel it is out of control.. He gave us the best gift ever Now what are we going to give Him ?

Peg says 12.7.2011, 12:01 a.m.

Dear Brother Billy, I am so glad that the Holy Spirit is always with you; I know He will take better care of you than all the human physicians ever can! I also love Christmas, and thank the Lord for giving me the heart of a child!

Linda says 12.6.2011, 9:14 p.m.

May God keep you in his hands safe and grant you a full and quick recovery. May the Joy of Christmas bring you light and peace. You are always in our prayers.

Patty says 12.6.2011, 00:49 a.m.

Dear Billy Graham, I have always respected and loved you!!! Your life is a true example of the living Christ on earth!! I just prayed for you, and am believing that your full recovery is already happening! PRAISE THE LORD, HE IS SO GOOD!! Blessings to you and your family, this Christmas season. What a GIFT you have been to all of us!

Ruth says 12.5.2011, 11:01 p.m.

Dr. Graham - Our family has admired your Godly example for years. For Christmas I purchase the audio version of your book Nearing Home for my mother. I know she will enjoy listening to it. Merry Christmas!

Kim says 12.5.2011, 4:15 p.m.

Thank you for your faithfulness and your example to me for so many years. May God bless you and keep you and shine His face on and give you His comfort and peace.

Tammy says 12.5.2011, 3:03 p.m.

Dr.Graham, You are in my prayers for a speedy recovery and good will wishes thorough out the year. Have a very Merry Christmas and GOD bless You.

Steve says 12.5.2011, 06:14 a.m.

Unless you have lots of money, memory and help you cannot buy everyone you know a card or a gift. The truth is you can't even call everyone you know. Simply extend God's love and wish everyone a Merry Christmas? A speedy recovery Dr. Graham!

Ann says 12.5.2011, 05:39 a.m.

You make the world a better place by being here, and a true servant of God. Thank you for all your hours in work for the Lord! It is your life, and it shows. God's Blessings, praying for Better health for you.

Norma says 12.4.2011, 11:10 p.m.

Dear Mr Graham, I first watched you as a little girl on TV at my grandmothers house. She loved and respected you very much. I pray that Jesus will wrap his loving and holy arms around you for comfort and healing. Peace and Grace be with you always.

J.S. says 12.4.2011, 6:16 p.m.

The first time I remember hearing the "just as I am" song in one of your crusades...I cried so hard and so deep...my first call for lost souls!...Thank God and praise his holy name for creating you Billy and God bless your family and the example you all set...America and the world is a better place because of Jesus, you and your family.....

Linda says 12.4.2011, 6:11 p.m.

Thank you so much for all you have done in your life. My husband and I were saved at one of your crusades. I wish God's blessings on you and a speedy recovery. We are praying for you.

JuanG. says 12.4.2011, 2:29 p.m.

You brought me to the Lord in 1977 0r 78. I can't recall. It was in Gonzales TX. at the Apache Football Stadium. I'm 63 years old now and I know for sure sometime in the future we will meet. Till then May God bless you and heal you. Praise Jesus.

Carolee says 12.4.2011, 09:56 a.m.

Dr. Graham:...I've known you since my teens. I am now 61. Every time I hear Billy Grahams' name....Jesus springs forth. You bring living waters to us from the years of evangelistic services. Thank God he planted you in the USA. You have kept me close to God. I love you...God has a special place for you. Closing with Love.

Tammy Moore says 12.4.2011, 08:53 a.m.

I just want to let you know I will pray for you. I have seen you on TV so many years and you always have a message for me about Christ. When I was little you taught me the gospel and i have always remember the love of Christ thru your messages.

Cynthia says 12.4.2011, 08:12 a.m.

God bless and heal you Billy. I have followed your teaching ever since I was saved and they were the major reasons I finally came to except Christ as savior as naive as I was in what to do. Holy Spirit knew and helped me along.

Mary says 12.4.2011, 06:50 a.m.

Dear Mr.Graham I wish you a speedy recovery and a Merry Christmas.Last week used me to help bring a person I didn't comfort and peace in her final days on earth. I praise God that He gave me the insight and you so I could help her with salvation.

Liza says 12.4.2011, 04:13 a.m.

Dear Apostle Billy Graham, You have been a wonderful follower of Christ Jesus for all time, i pray for your quick recovery and let the peace and love of God Most High that you always preach to the world, be with you till the end in Jesus name

Steve says 12.3.2011, 11:09 p.m.

I pray the Lord will wrap his loving arms around you and hold you very close. Bless you kind servant.

Bob says 12.3.2011, 8:24 p.m.

Dear Billy, Lord see you through this set back. Continue to serve Him as He has enabled you. May that include another opportunity to preach the word to many. Thank you for responding to His call on your life. To God be the glory.

Renate says 12.3.2011, 5:33 p.m.

Brother Billy Graham, you are in our prayers for a speedy recovery, you are a faithful servant proclaiming the true gospel of our Lord and Savior. My deepest respect and love. I was also very fond of your lovely late wife Ruth. Merry Christmas to you

Nell says 12.3.2011, 5:17 p.m.

I just finished reading your new book," Nearing Home".It was very good.I rejoice that the Lord is restoring you and trust that He will continue to use you for His glory.

Patricia says 12.3.2011, 4:17 p.m.

Wishing you a speedy recovery Mr. Graham and hope you can be home for Christmas with your family. God Bless, I Love You, you are truly a wonderful man full of the Holy Spirit head to toe and then some. If only 1% of people had a heart like you, we would live in a different world. Love and Many Blessings this the season of Jesus Birthday.

Helen says 12.3.2011, 3:00 p.m.

I wish you a speedy recovery. I kind of lost the Christmas spirit when I lost my Father in 1986 but I had my children to think about and that helped. Then my children grew up and are not with me at Christmas and last January of 2010 I lost my precious Mother and I cannot seem to get the spirit back. I was taught the true meaning of Christmas by my parents when I was little. I can still hear them both now saying it is all about Jesus' birth and without him we would never live forever in heaven. So be thankful for what you have and that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. I am alone but yet I am not alone for I have Jesus by my side.

Robin says 12.3.2011, 12:58 a.m.

I wish you a speedy recovery and Thank You so much for spreading the word of our God.

Myrian says 12.3.2011, 12:06 a.m.

Dr. Graham, May God bless you with good health, protect you with His almighty strength, and keep you always in His tender arms. You good Disciple of The Lord...Myrian

jemima says 12.3.2011, 11:53 a.m.

Thank you Lord for giving us a humbled an obedient servant,I pray that in these times God will raise up another powerful man of God.I pray that Jesus chooses another successor to represent Him in a more powerful way on this earth. Thank you Lord

jemima says 12.3.2011, 11:52 a.m.

Thank you Lord for giving us a humbled an obedient servant, I pray that in these times God will raise up another powerful man of God. I pray that Jesus chooses another successor to represent Him in a more powerful way on this earth.Thank you Lord

mike says 12.3.2011, 11:26 a.m.

Praying for you Mr Graham you are a true man of God a Romans 12 christian

Keith says 12.3.2011, 10:59 a.m.

For me it is Christmas music, that keeps me rejoicing and makes this season a time of joy. God uses the old carols and hymns and newer songs like "Mary Did You Know" to bless and thrill us with story of our Savior's birth.

Dave says 12.3.2011, 10:58 a.m.

Yes, may our focus be on the reason we have Christmas - the LOVE of God manifested in His sending His only Son, Jesus to save us, you and I, from our sins and give us hope of eternal life with our Creator. Truly, 'JOY to the world, the LORD is come!'

Gemmel says 12.3.2011, 10:45 a.m.

Lets share the message this Christmas and adjust people's focus from doubt to certainty As the Angel said in Luke 2:10his message was for all people "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people."

Phyllis says 12.3.2011, 10:33 a.m.

I love you and respect you very much, dear precious Billy Graham. I am praying that God will heal you from the Pneumonia and any other health problems so you can fully enjoy this blessed Christmas season.

Zelma says 12.3.2011, 10:25 a.m.

You mean so much to the Christian people over the years. Hope you are better soon. Praying for you.

helen says 12.3.2011, 09:43 a.m.

Dear Mr. Graham, know that I am praying for your recovery. You are an inspiration to so many! May God bless and keep you. Christmas is suppose to be for giving not receiving. There are so many that need food, clothing, and prayers GIVE!! God bless all.

Barbara says 12.3.2011, 08:04 a.m.

It is my prayer that the Lord will heal you and give you the strength to preach His word to us once more. Blessings and God's peace be upon you and your family.

Susan says 12.3.2011, 07:22 a.m.

Your in our prayers, Rev.Graham!

Cathy says 12.3.2011, 06:46 a.m.

Praying for your healing, Dr. Graham and praying for the world. Forgive us Lord for leaving you out of Christmas and getting wrapped up in earthly, fleshly things.

FRANK says 12.3.2011, 03:09 a.m.

I AM PRAYING FOR THE MISSION OF BGEA AND CERTAINLY PRAYING FOR DR GRAHAM`S HEALTH. I WAS SAVED IN THE MID-50`S CRUSADE IN NASHVILLE AND GREATLY APPRECIATE THESE EVANGELISTIC WORKS!

Jan says 12.3.2011, 00:34 a.m.

I love Jesus! What could be better than thinking about Him? I also love my family and friends. I love my First Grade Sunday School kids that I teach on Sunday. It is good to have people to share the love of God.

Linda Carter says 12.2.2011, 10:24 p.m.

Christmas is a busy tiime of year, but if I/we focus on Jesus is the reason for the Season and take the time to thank Him for all He's done. We can enjoy this busy time. If we cut down on buying, and take the time to prepare Christmas with our family

Lynn says 12.2.2011, 8:00 p.m.

God bless you Rev. Graham for your continued mission to preach the Word, especially the importance of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ

Nina says 12.2.2011, 7:49 p.m.

As always the servant of the true living God is right. May I recommend the reading of a book titled, "Don't Waste Your Life", by John Piper.This will help, using Scripture of course, to set ones course right with God. Merry Christmas.

Kasey says 12.2.2011, 7:43 p.m.

I recently posted the question rgarding Christmas on my Face Book profile...What and who are we celebrating at Christmas..? It is a reminder not just during the Christmas season, but through out the year; who do we serve?? Self or God... This year my husband and I challeneged our two Churches (we are Pastor's) to make this season about "others". About providing food, clothing, friendship and hope through the auspices of Christ. Makes for a very clear perspective on our purpose now and everyday. Blessings to you Dr. Graham, I am praying for your health to be complete.

Rex says 12.2.2011, 7:28 p.m.

Let get perspective aright. Christmas is a celebration of an event - not a politically correct date. The Superbowl is an event - not a date. No one goes to a date, they go to an event. Celebrate your hearts out - give lots of presents, and enjoy it!

Bonnie says 12.2.2011, 7:13 p.m.

As God sent His son Jesus to earth in the form of a baby, may we all kneel at the manger in our hearts, remembering the simplicity of His birth. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Billy as you recover and look forward to that day when you WILL hear God say to you, "Well done thou good and faithful Servant. Thank you for setting the example and challenging me to follow in His Steps.

Patti says 12.2.2011, 6:56 p.m.

It's too bad that in this country we have let Christmas become so stressful and commercialized, tearing down the true meaning. We just need to get back to basics and be together as a family and have more love in our lives. Christmas should light the way

Maureen says 12.2.2011, 6:46 p.m.

Hope YOU FEEL BETTER SOON, and ARE HOME FOR Christmas! Love FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS.

Wanda says 12.2.2011, 6:33 p.m.

I am so thankful to live in a country to allows us the freedom to shout to the World-How much we LOVE our GOD! Even getting the freedom to write this message. Think about it. Love to Rev. Graham and Family.

Pauline says 12.2.2011, 6:19 p.m.

Over the years we seldom remember the gifts we get but we always remember the joy we had of being together. Perhaps a few tears for loved ones who have gone on to be with our Lord but then rejoicing that they are with our Savior.

Joyce says 12.2.2011, 6:14 p.m.

I lost my brother 2 years ago this coming January and then lost my husband of 48 years this past August. When people start with me I just look at them and say: "Its my Saviour's Birthday and I will adore Him." Everyone should!

christine says 12.2.2011, 5:50 p.m.

If we spread joy, this is the true gift of Christmas. Try not to give or take sorrow, rather share in Gods word and peace.

Joanna says 12.2.2011, 5:22 p.m.

Dear Bro. Graham,Thank you. I do not hate Christmas, but many of my family members have lost family. We have some family members who have passed away. So, that's hard. Thank you for the reminder from the shepherds. Hope you're all right!

Paula says 12.2.2011, 4:08 p.m.

Christmas has always been about family and good friends sharing and remembering always that Christ is the reason to celebrate Christmas and not "xmas". We should be praising God for His son Jesus Christ and what He did and still does for us today.

Maria says 12.2.2011, 3:48 p.m.

Christmas is about God with us. Just keep it in mind.

Ginny says 12.2.2011, 3:12 p.m.

Christmas is not about presents and beautful decorations. Its having family and wonderful friends. And memories of wonderful family time. And its going to church and listening to the beautiful music.

TammyK says 12.2.2011, 2:43 p.m.

Pray and ask God to reveal to you, how He'd have you spend His money. He may tell you to Not spend it at all, as He did to me 4 years ago! Go feed the hungry, orphans and widows-James 1:27-Be the Church!-that's stress free living for Christ! Tammy OK

Lou says 12.2.2011, 1:59 p.m.

I agree 100 with the answer given by the Reverend Graham and the comment made by Scott. We tend to forget the reason of the celebration of Christmas. It has become commercialized to the extent that many do not even know the story of the birth.

Elizabeth says 12.2.2011, 1:46 p.m.

I had begun to dread Christmas at work. It had become, "Who can give the most impressive gifts?" I started giving my co-workers a card with a note stating I had made a donation to a local help organization in their name, and I did make the donation

John says 12.2.2011, 1:06 p.m.

I remember my parent stressing about what to do about Christmas there were eight kids to feed and never any money for toys and such but when Christmas morning came no matter what there was joy and love we knew about JESUS' gift, we loved each other

Scott says 10.5.2010, 12:13 a.m.

In my opinion, people forget what Christmas is. It's not gifts, cards, parties and rushing around. It's small things like being with family, a simple phone call and a short visit to someone who has nobody to spend Christmas with and to really take the time to look at the bible and read what Christmas is really all about.