FAITH & FAMILY

by Lynn Leisen (lynnl@lordoflife.org)

Advent is a time for families to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. That preparation comes in as many forms as there are shapes and sizes of families. Rituals and traditions are important. They help families identify themselves and tell their family stories. They demonstrate what the family values and believes, and how much the family values its faith. Here are some suggestions for making your celebration a faithful remembering of Jesus’ birth. Do what feels right for your family. Try something new. If it’s not right, don’t force it. There are plenty of meaningful ideas to try:

Pray together. Perhaps this Advent your mealtime or bedtime prayer could be your favorite Christmas carol. Light an Advent wreath and read a Bible verse or devotion each day, each Sunday, or whenever you have time. Don’t pressure yourself to be perfect. Decorate the tree together. Share stories about the ornaments. Leave space under the tree for a nativity set. Jesus is the greatest gift. Tell the Christmas story as you set up the nativity set. Make sure there is a “touchable” set for young children. What fun it will be to lay around the lit tree and tell the story of Jesus’ birth using a nativity set night after night during Advent! Take a drive to look at lights. Try to find lights and displays that point to Jesus.

If it brings you joy, bake cookies together or shop for fun pre-decorated cookies. They make a nice gift for friends and neighbors, too!

Make worship a priority. The music and message this time of year is special for the whole family. Invite other family members, neighbors, and friends to worship with you.

Please don’t feel pressured to do more. Keeping your celebration simple and custom-made for your family will allow you to enjoy a peaceful, Christ-filled Christmas. God’s peace to you and your family.