Insights from Nathan Drake’s approach to authentic Christmas worship

Ever felt that pressure to somehow transform your intimate worship space into a Broadway-scale production come December? You’re not alone. Nathan Drake’s recent video tackles this common challenge head-on, offering a refreshing perspective for those of us leading worship in smaller churches.

The Christmas Comparison Trap

Let’s be honest – we’ve all had those moments. You hear about the megachurch down the road with their hundred-person orchestra, professional-grade production, and (apparently) iPad giveaways. For a moment, you feel that twinge of inadequacy. But here’s Drake’s core message that hit home: You don’t need to compete. More importantly, you shouldn’t.

The Heart of Christmas Worship

Before we dive into practical ideas, Drake raises a crucial question we should all ask ourselves when planning Christmas services: “Is this glorifying God, or is this glorifying our church?” It’s a simple but powerful filter that can transform our approach to Christmas planning.

Embracing Your Church’s Identity

Your church’s size isn’t a limitation – it’s part of your identity. Instead of trying to be something you’re not this Christmas, consider these authentic approaches that play to your strengths:

1. The Intimate Acoustic Christmas

If you’re typically an acoustic-led worship team, don’t feel pressured to suddenly become a full orchestra. Instead, lean into the intimacy:

• Consider a “Pajama Christmas” service where families come in comfortable clothes with blankets
• Use your usual acoustic setup to create a warm, inviting atmosphere
• Focus on the storytelling potential of a more intimate setting

2. Community-Centered Celebrations

Rather than hired performers, engage your congregation:

• Form a volunteer Christmas choir – no four-part harmony required
• Invite families to participate in reading the Christmas story
• Create interactive moments like a Christmas hymn sing-along

3. Simple But Meaningful Touches

Skip the expensive giveaways and focus on community-building elements:

• Set up a welcoming hot chocolate bar
• Organize an ugly Christmas sweater contest
• Have kids create and distribute handmade ornaments as welcome gifts

Making It Work This Sunday

Here are some immediate steps you can take:

• Evaluate your current Christmas plans through the “glorifying God” lens
• Identify your church’s unique strengths and plan around them
• Look for ways to involve more people from your congregation
• Focus on creating genuine moments of community

The Real Gift

Remember, when visitors come to your Christmas service, they should experience who you truly are as a church family. Don’t create a Christmas facade that disappears by December 26th. Your church’s authentic identity is exactly what someone might be seeking.
The most powerful Christmas services often happen when we stop trying to be something we’re not and instead focus on being the best version of who we already are. As Drake reminds us, Christmas isn’t a time to hide your church’s unique identity – it’s a time to celebrate it.