First, we had our ward Christmas Party last night. The girls who planned it did a wonderful job and put a lot of time and effort into it. We went to different rooms and each had a way to find Christ in Christmas. Each room had 'presents' that we collected with a scripture that we could reference to. I know the true meaning of Christmas, but it is always a good reminder about what Christmas is REALLY about.
President Monson tonight at the Christmas Devotional talked about Christmas.
"I'm saddened to see Christmas becoming less and less about Christ and more and more about marketing, and sales, parties, and presents, and yet, Christmas is what we make of it."
I admit, I have gotten lost in all the things that he mentioned. Making sure all my decorations are up, getting Akoy used to the whole "Santa Claus" idea. But, I haven't really sat down with him and talked about it. I like to use the excuse that he is only two and doesn't get it, but I'm sure he would if I taught him. This is my goal. I want my children to know the meaning and focus on Christ and the other "Christmas" factors afterwards.
As my family is growing and starting out I want to incorporate so many traditions. Traditions I hear other people talk about, traditions I see on Pinterest or other places. Too many traditions to do all at once. I want Akoy and my other children to feel like it is something special and not another thing we have to hurry and squeeze in.
I want to write it here so I will not forget and can continue it next year. In trying to remember Christ in our Christmas season, I thought it would be a good idea to have some 'Christ' type present to have the kids/us open up after each of the First Presidency Christmas Devotionals. It's something that we can talk to them about and make sure they don't forget the real meaning before all the other crazy holiday stuff begins. This year we added a picture of Christ to our house. We have pictures of temples, and the presidency but not of Christ. I want His picture to be in every room. We put one in the kids room and one in ours. Hopefully as the years go on, our house can be surrounded but reminders of our Christ and Reedemer.
I am grateful for this season and the gospel, and the knowledge it brings us. I have so many blessings, and I really need to remember each one of them and forget about the things that bring my spirit down.
3 comments:
I have the same goal of having a picture of Christ in each room, although in some we do just have temples. Devin and I also have a goal to have a Book of Mormon in each room, so you never have to go too far to find one when you need it.
That's a great tradition. And good timing too - because the First Presidency Devotional is always toward the beginning of the Christmas season.
You're such a great example! I know I tell you that a lot but really, you are! Love you!
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