December 10
“Traditions,” by Lynn Biggs
We have several family traditions during the holiday season. The busyness of the holiday season is always present, but it’s the family traditions we continue every year that make the holiday season so special.
We have always had a traditional “search for the perfect live Christmas tree” experience. We traipse up and down the rows of trees, and Joe braves the branches to cut down the “perfect” tree. Last year, Joe and I tried to talk the kids into buying an artificial tree. “No” was the resounding word we heard in response to our idea.
A couple of days before Christmas, the kids and I make dozens of cut out sugar cookies. Over the years, it has become a fun day filled with music, laughter, and creativity. This past year, the kids finally admitted that the cookies never really taste that good. It’s the fun we have while making them that matters.
Christmas Eve dinner and attending the Christmas Eve service has also been a family tradition. We eat the same thing every year, and we attend Memorial’s traditional service. The service always helps us to reflect on the importance of Christ in our lives.
One of our devotional questions is, “How do you experience Christ in the ‘busyness’ of the Advent/Christmas season?” Time spent with family, the memories created, and the traditions followed all prepare us for renewing our commitment to Christ and celebrating the Holy season. Our commitment to Christ is ever present in the way we interpret Christmas and make family memories.
Let us pray, “Heavenly Father, thank you for the comfort of family traditions. Let us remember to take time during this busy season to celebrate each other and the gifts You have bestowed upon us. Amen.”
