Christmas Traditions

Christmas Traditions
This is the time of year that people will be doing all types of wonderful things. Families have already gathered to feast on turkey, green bean casserole, and more for Thanksgiving. Now we are all looking forward to celebrating Christmas with our families in just a few short weeks. Every family will do things differently. Maybe your family makes gumbo for Christmas. Maybe your weird Uncle John always reads The Night Before Christmas on Christmas eve to the family. Whatever your family does, you all do it the way that you do it.

Gifts will be given, food will be eaten, time will be shared. All of these things are good and enjoyable. However, what is missing in the picture so far? It is Jesus. This time of year we talk about how “Jesus is the reason for the season.” However, where do we see this in action? Where is Jesus in our family traditions? If Jesus truly is the reason for the season then when do we seek to make much of Him during Christmas?

One simple way we can make much of Jesus during Christmas is by reading the Bible with our families. We can read about the incarnation of the Son of God to come and rescue His people. All of us need to be reminded of the goodness and kindness of our Lord who came to the earth. Whether it is you and a spouse only, or maybe there are children, young and grown, roaming around Christmas day. Whatever Christmas day looks like, consider reading the Bible together as part of your family traditions this year.

Hot cocoa with marshmallows, smores by the fire, stockings filled with goodies, a well lit Christmas tree, and fuzzy Christmas pajamas are all fine and dandy. Yet, they all pale in comparison to Jesus. He is King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the eternal Son of God whom we shall praise forever for all that He accomplished in redeeming a people unto Himself. Let us worship Him this Christmas.

Grace be with you,
C. R. Hamilton