This year we didn't travel for Christmas, being so close to my due date and Tricare not allowing me out of the area and all. It was very quiet around here in this military town, but we were still determined to make this first Christmas at home special. We talked about what traditions we wanted to make for our little growing family. Adam suggested an advent wreath. A trip to Michael's and a craft project ensued.
(Almost) every night of Advent we sat at this table and lit our wreath. We read the bible verses that corresponded with that day (printed from Focus on the Family). We talked about them, talked about what was on our heart, what God was teaching us, and prayed. It was one of my most favorite parts of the day and I think it helped us keep perspective on what this holiday is really all about.
And don't I have such a wonderful husband to start such a tradition and lead me through it? I think as we practice it each year we will grow closer to God and closer as a family and *hopefully* take the focus off of presents (we really don't want to spoil the kids) and put it on the birth of Christ.
On Christmas morning, before opening our presents, we lit all four candles and the one in the middle to signify Jesus' birth. We read the Christmas story in two gospels. As we contemplated the coming of baby Jesus, I remembered the news headlines of the month. And all I could do was be thankful for this day. We need Christmas. We need it not for sales and presents and traveling in traffic. We need it because we need a Savior. A Savior who can take on the sins of the world and open the gates of Heaven and give us mercy and grace. A Savior to Trust with all of the tragedy and unknown around us. And we have Him. We have Him now, and He will come again.
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