As I read all the wonderful entries on this blog, it makes me feel so nostalgic, thinking of my Christmases through the years. Not surprisingly, my mother was the central figure of all the Christmas preparations when I was a kid. She did a great job though letting all the children contribute to the Christmas decorating, however it came out. She was always so appreciative and encouraging. Thinking back now I can hear her voice directing action in the kitchen like a conductor leads an orchestra, everything coming together at just the right time. So capable and resilient. So loving in every which way.
Prior to marrying my father, my mother lived an exciting life as a single career women during WWII, working for the FBI on both coasts and having lots of off-hours fun at the beach with the other women and the agents. As a kid, I used to try to picture that part of her life, having a little trouble reconciling it with the model homemaker side of her I knew.
Through the last ten years, my relationship with my mother has changed. Little by little her memory has been stripped away by the thief known as Alzheimer's disease. It has progressed slowly with a variety of stages, and a lesson for me in each step: patience, courage, understanding, and a humble gratitude and admiration for my sister who is her primary care-giver.
My Mom, happily, is still central to my Christmas. Each November my sisters and I discuss when and where to visit considering what would be least disorienting to her. Usually the visit is brief but sweet. Her cheery eyes and warm smile take me back to my childhood and I comforted by just sitting close to her. She's lost those memories of WWII and the Great Depression. She no longer tells me stories of the men returning from war and of the 1938 hurricane. In fact, she no longer knows my name or recognizes me as her daughter. She delights in entertainment and toys designed for children. Stripped of most memory, agility and many basic abilities, she who has been my greatest source of love and comfort, has be come like a infant in many ways. Yet the comfort and love are still there. I feel it when I smell her and when I hear her voice. I see my mother like the Christ child: Jesus was vulnerable baby that night of his birth, yet the source of eternal comfort and joy. When I am with my Mom, I feel closer to Jesus.
Jackie Farrell
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
The Christmas Eve Event
Christmas for us has always been a time for gathering family and enjoying the time together. For the past 27 yrs, we've been getting family together to celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. It'd be our parents, siblings, inlaws, neices and nephews- and close friends gathered together in one place once a year. The night was so anticipated and enjoyed on so many levels. The friends would flow through on their way to other events, but always seemed to linger at our house as part of our "family". We'd gather these people and share food, hugs and time together. We even leave our guests (those who didn't want to join us) and go off to the Christmas Eve service, come back and rejoin the festive crowd.
We've evolved into doing a gift swap and it really isn't about the gift as much as it's about the time together and the comedic attempts to come up with a gift to make everyone laugh. It's a pretty humorously creative crowd. I've tried to cancel it or even modify it- DENIED by the group. So, I guess it stays as is.
As the years have gone on, the nieces and nephews and our children now consider it a "must do" event. With everyone going in so many different directions and now living all over the U.S. and Europe, Christmas Eve is one of those events that they really try to be home for. It's still one of the only times we all just get together and share time, laughs, and love. I wouldn't trade it for any store bought gift that the Ad wizards are trying to sell me. My family is my greatest blessing and I love taking Christ's birthday as the day to celebrate these great gifts simultaneously.
Merry Christmas to you all- Nancy Hill
We've evolved into doing a gift swap and it really isn't about the gift as much as it's about the time together and the comedic attempts to come up with a gift to make everyone laugh. It's a pretty humorously creative crowd. I've tried to cancel it or even modify it- DENIED by the group. So, I guess it stays as is.
As the years have gone on, the nieces and nephews and our children now consider it a "must do" event. With everyone going in so many different directions and now living all over the U.S. and Europe, Christmas Eve is one of those events that they really try to be home for. It's still one of the only times we all just get together and share time, laughs, and love. I wouldn't trade it for any store bought gift that the Ad wizards are trying to sell me. My family is my greatest blessing and I love taking Christ's birthday as the day to celebrate these great gifts simultaneously.
Merry Christmas to you all- Nancy Hill
Music for the season
Listening to great Christian music seems to be a necessity at Christmas time. I did some searching online and found what I consider a top inspirational station ( KTIS.fm/christmas out of Minnesota.) I'm listening now while I cleanup around the house.Along with the music there are call-ins from listeners sharing their Christmas stories.This station plays music the majority of the time so you can tune in and listen whenever you need a lift! I would recommend it for those who like light contemporary and a variety of styles.
Judy Mello
Judy Mello
A Canine Christmas Analogy
I too have many similar traditions listed here. We have a manger scene that moves its shepherds and wisemen closer to the manger. They don’t make the long distance around the livingroom but make their way across a bureau we have in the dining room. The scenery has grown. I add animals, rocks, plants and angels each year. It has always been the preparation of Christmas to me. I enjoy getting ready for it. The time spent with the children making gingerbread houses, crafting for gifts. So too, I enjoy the time I can reflect on what Jesus did for us. There is a story told by Chuck Missler relaying a dream a friend of his, John, had. He is being shown the universe. They are approaching a planet and he is a bit puzzled. What is special about this planet? God says, Look closer. As they get closer he sees the planet is inhabited by all dogs. Now he is even more confused and God again says to look closer. So as he looks he sees the dogs are vicious dogs. It’s horrible to watch. So he says to God, I don’t understand. And God says to him, You see John, I love these dogs and I want you to go to them and take my message of love to them. Well John doesn’t feel comfortable or thrilled to do this, but he will do anything for God and tells Him so. God then explains to him, in order for him to do this he will have to become a dog. Not just any dog but a chihuahua. And when he goes there he warns him they will not listen, in fact they are going to tear you apart, kill you. But that’s okay because I am going to resurrect you. John says Okay that;s better, Then God says to him, But know this John, even when I resurrect you, you will remain a dog, you will always be a chihuahua.
Jesus became man for eternity. He did that for us. Merry Christmas.
Pat Coppola
Jesus became man for eternity. He did that for us. Merry Christmas.
Pat Coppola
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Savoring Family Breakfast
A couple traditions come to mind. Christmas is one of two days of the year when our busy family sits down to have breakfast together (Easter Sunday - or sometimes Easter "Saturday" - is the only other day). We get up early on Christmas morning (but it gets a little later each year it seems), open our stockings, and then have breakfast. Nancy has been making cinnamon rolls for Christmas ever since we met. She serves those plus scrambled eggs, sausage, and fruit. We pray together before the meal, we (at least try to) eat slowly to savor the moment, and then move on to opening Christmas presents. It's one of my favorite parts of the day and the season, especially as family times with all 6 of us in the room are becoming more rare, and more precious, with each passing year.
Another tradition of my own is I listening to the entire Handel's Messiah. I try to do it every Advent season, but given the length of the piece sometimes I have to break it up into "segments" instead of listening to the entire thing in one sitting. I love the music and find it spiritually moving to reflect on the many Scriptures - especially the O.T. prophecies - that comprise the words of this great musical oratorio. I would like to learn more about the history of the piece.
May you experience the true joy of knowing Christ the Messiah this Christmas!
John Feehrer
"For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
- Isaiah 9:6 (NLT)
Another tradition of my own is I listening to the entire Handel's Messiah. I try to do it every Advent season, but given the length of the piece sometimes I have to break it up into "segments" instead of listening to the entire thing in one sitting. I love the music and find it spiritually moving to reflect on the many Scriptures - especially the O.T. prophecies - that comprise the words of this great musical oratorio. I would like to learn more about the history of the piece.
May you experience the true joy of knowing Christ the Messiah this Christmas!
John Feehrer
"For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
- Isaiah 9:6 (NLT)
Saturday, December 12, 2009
A Moving Nativity
When our children were very young my wife came up with the idea to make the Nativity set an active living part of the Christmas season to involve the kids and help them understand the Christmas story.
We would set the manger in a destination spot with just the cow and the star from our set. Then we would put Joseph, Mary and the donkey across the room and do the same with the three kings and the shepherds and sheep, each having their own starting point. Then through the advent season we would read the scriptures that tells the story of what happened to each group and why they traveled. Then each day we would have the children move each of the grouping closer and closer toward the manger so that they all end at the manger scene by Christmas day. Christmas eve when the kids were asleep we put the baby Jesus in the manger.
The children loved it and could not wait to move the pieces each day. It was fun watching Mary and Joseph cross the hutch then the book shelf to the piano then into the manger scene. The shepherds crossed two window sills and a coffee table to the scene. while the three kings traveled from the edge of a desk over the stereo on to a side table then a speaker to the scene last. As we turned to scripture to be accurate with the interactive nativity experience we learned a great deal too. It is something we do every year and now that two of our children have grown out of that faze we still keep the tradition. We thought you may like the story.
Brian & Marlies Henderson
We would set the manger in a destination spot with just the cow and the star from our set. Then we would put Joseph, Mary and the donkey across the room and do the same with the three kings and the shepherds and sheep, each having their own starting point. Then through the advent season we would read the scriptures that tells the story of what happened to each group and why they traveled. Then each day we would have the children move each of the grouping closer and closer toward the manger so that they all end at the manger scene by Christmas day. Christmas eve when the kids were asleep we put the baby Jesus in the manger.
The children loved it and could not wait to move the pieces each day. It was fun watching Mary and Joseph cross the hutch then the book shelf to the piano then into the manger scene. The shepherds crossed two window sills and a coffee table to the scene. while the three kings traveled from the edge of a desk over the stereo on to a side table then a speaker to the scene last. As we turned to scripture to be accurate with the interactive nativity experience we learned a great deal too. It is something we do every year and now that two of our children have grown out of that faze we still keep the tradition. We thought you may like the story.
Brian & Marlies Henderson
Friday, December 11, 2009
Meaningful Gifts
When I was younger, we too usually received PJ’s or slippers as the one present we could open on Christmas Eve. I cracked up as I was reading another blog that was posted earlier with the same tradition. My parents, my brother and my self typically spent Christmas Eve at church with our friends. Sometimes there were parties other times it was just a quiet evening.
The most exciting part Christmas morning, for my brother and I was finding our stockings laid carefully on the end of our beds. There were little gifts tucked neatly inside and each was individually wrapped. We found a small toy or two, an orange or Clementine, some type of chocolate, and my favorite the Book of Life Saver candies (which I usually had finished at least 2 rolls before mom and dad were up).
As the rest of the house began to stir, we prompted mom to finish her tea and for both her and Dad to come sit down by the tree. Dad would get out his bible and read the Christmas story… my brother and I silently prayed that dad would read the account from Mathew chapter1: verses18 - 25 and certainly not from Luke chapters 1 – 2:40 (as it took dreadfully long). My happiest memories were the Christmas mornings in which we listened intently to Dad read the account of our Savior’s humble birth, prayed for His blessing on our family time and spent our time savoring each gift and taking turns opening 1 gift at a time. Watching each others’ expressions and excitement made the day last (and the memories too).
We also received a new Christmas ornament each year; all those ornaments I still treasure as I try to remember when each was given. Mom wrote the year on most of them. Now that I am a mom, we continue some of the traditions that I remember fondly. We try to purchase unique ornaments each year for both of my children. We also read an abridged version of the Christmas Story (our children are ages 4 and 6 now and have the attention span of a gnat on caffeine). We even place the stockings on the end of our children’s bed after they have fallen asleep.
One thing I’d like to change is the rush and hectic-ness that seems to have come from no-where, but I’m sure they were slowly sneaking in upon us, growing more and more each year. As the kids get older and have more say in what they would like for Christmas, I’d like to refocus them on what it means to give and give freely. I’d like to be able to pause and remember that God’s plans for us aren’t always as we envision them; that His timing is so much more critical than the timing we set upon Him. It is a breath of fresh air as I view this Christmas differently; its not a drastic change, but a much simpler celebration. Less rush and less stress. I wish you all a very Merry and simple Christmas as we celebrate the humble birth of our Lord and Savior.
Patti Q.
The most exciting part Christmas morning, for my brother and I was finding our stockings laid carefully on the end of our beds. There were little gifts tucked neatly inside and each was individually wrapped. We found a small toy or two, an orange or Clementine, some type of chocolate, and my favorite the Book of Life Saver candies (which I usually had finished at least 2 rolls before mom and dad were up).
As the rest of the house began to stir, we prompted mom to finish her tea and for both her and Dad to come sit down by the tree. Dad would get out his bible and read the Christmas story… my brother and I silently prayed that dad would read the account from Mathew chapter1: verses18 - 25 and certainly not from Luke chapters 1 – 2:40 (as it took dreadfully long). My happiest memories were the Christmas mornings in which we listened intently to Dad read the account of our Savior’s humble birth, prayed for His blessing on our family time and spent our time savoring each gift and taking turns opening 1 gift at a time. Watching each others’ expressions and excitement made the day last (and the memories too).
We also received a new Christmas ornament each year; all those ornaments I still treasure as I try to remember when each was given. Mom wrote the year on most of them. Now that I am a mom, we continue some of the traditions that I remember fondly. We try to purchase unique ornaments each year for both of my children. We also read an abridged version of the Christmas Story (our children are ages 4 and 6 now and have the attention span of a gnat on caffeine). We even place the stockings on the end of our children’s bed after they have fallen asleep.
One thing I’d like to change is the rush and hectic-ness that seems to have come from no-where, but I’m sure they were slowly sneaking in upon us, growing more and more each year. As the kids get older and have more say in what they would like for Christmas, I’d like to refocus them on what it means to give and give freely. I’d like to be able to pause and remember that God’s plans for us aren’t always as we envision them; that His timing is so much more critical than the timing we set upon Him. It is a breath of fresh air as I view this Christmas differently; its not a drastic change, but a much simpler celebration. Less rush and less stress. I wish you all a very Merry and simple Christmas as we celebrate the humble birth of our Lord and Savior.
Patti Q.
Hallmark Christmas Ornaments
Our tradition at our home has always been that every year I've purchased a hallmark Christmas ornament. It arrives in her stocking each year and it is something that she looks forward to getting. The ornament usually signifies something that is dear to her or that it somehow has related to the time in her life.
Chelsea is sixteen and she has received one for every Christmas. When it is time to put up the tree she takes each and everyone out of their box and as she hangs each ornament on the tree she recalls each one and the meaning of what it meant by receiving it. It is a wonderful time to reflect how good things can be with such simplicity.
I started this tradition with the intent that one day, when she starts that new chapter in her life, she'll be able to take those ornaments and decorate her own tree. She'll be able to recall and remember her childhood tree decorating days listening to Christmas music and remembering the special moments spent with her mother.
Kimberly & Chelsea Boland
Chelsea is sixteen and she has received one for every Christmas. When it is time to put up the tree she takes each and everyone out of their box and as she hangs each ornament on the tree she recalls each one and the meaning of what it meant by receiving it. It is a wonderful time to reflect how good things can be with such simplicity.
I started this tradition with the intent that one day, when she starts that new chapter in her life, she'll be able to take those ornaments and decorate her own tree. She'll be able to recall and remember her childhood tree decorating days listening to Christmas music and remembering the special moments spent with her mother.
Kimberly & Chelsea Boland
An Irish Tree and Family
Christmas always focused on the family getting together and enjoying each others's company. My mother would bake a cake for baby Jesus and on Christmas Eve we would sing Happy Birthday to Him. Then we would play games and participate in a Yankee Swap. My family has a strong Irish Heritage so, my mother always made a big deal about her Irish Christmas Tree (a tree devised of all Irish ornaments, Clover garland and green beaded strings).
Christmas day was a time when Paul and I would spend quiet time with our children, we'd make a Huge family breakfast and pull out all of the best dishes. We would talk about the things that we love about the season and we did a lot of laughing! We would then spend the later part of Christmas day with Paul's family. Of course the day is never complete until we watch the Christmas Story which plays around the clock on television. I personally find great joy in watching Paul laugh heartily at the same scenes year after year!
This year it seems that our traditions are changing. My mother and father have passed away; however I have inherited the Irish Christmas tree! So, as we put up the tree this year we talked about how "Nanny" would make Christmas fun for the kids and how the Irish tree was such a huge part of Christmas. My sister will be bringing the birthday cake for Baby Jesus and we will all gather at our house to play games and participate in a yankee swap. The twist for this year is that all yankee swap gifts must be home made. No store bought gifts allowed! Everyone is very excited about this and have been spending lots and lots of time considering their individual creativity and what they would like to make.
Our daughter has gotten married and has a home of her own. So, I am not sure what Christmas day will be like this year - but, I am excited at the new traditions that are forming! One thing is for sure - The Christmas Story will be watched!
The Winchester's
Christmas day was a time when Paul and I would spend quiet time with our children, we'd make a Huge family breakfast and pull out all of the best dishes. We would talk about the things that we love about the season and we did a lot of laughing! We would then spend the later part of Christmas day with Paul's family. Of course the day is never complete until we watch the Christmas Story which plays around the clock on television. I personally find great joy in watching Paul laugh heartily at the same scenes year after year!
This year it seems that our traditions are changing. My mother and father have passed away; however I have inherited the Irish Christmas tree! So, as we put up the tree this year we talked about how "Nanny" would make Christmas fun for the kids and how the Irish tree was such a huge part of Christmas. My sister will be bringing the birthday cake for Baby Jesus and we will all gather at our house to play games and participate in a yankee swap. The twist for this year is that all yankee swap gifts must be home made. No store bought gifts allowed! Everyone is very excited about this and have been spending lots and lots of time considering their individual creativity and what they would like to make.
Our daughter has gotten married and has a home of her own. So, I am not sure what Christmas day will be like this year - but, I am excited at the new traditions that are forming! One thing is for sure - The Christmas Story will be watched!
The Winchester's
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Caroling on Christmas Morning
Our first tradition, which started when my grandchildren were babies, is to have a birthday cake (candles too) and celebrate Jesus' birthday. This is part of our Christmas Eve family get together and would not be complete without the cake and music.
The second tradition(last year was the first) is to go to the Life Care Center in No. Billerica and sing Christmas Carols in the Alzheimer's Unit on Christmas morning. This included friends and family (two of my grandchildren are 10 and 11). The grandchildren made small gifts for each of the patients which they personally gave to each patient. The Alzheimer's patients, some of whom never talk, could remember the words. Music is such a great thing to bring out the happiness and joy hidden in people. The last song we sang was the 12 Days of Christmas. We did fine until we got to the 12th day and no one could remember. We just stopped at 11 and no one knew the difference.
Both these traditions are such a rewarding experience and have given my family the real spirit of Christmas.
Blessings,
Deb Willard
The second tradition(last year was the first) is to go to the Life Care Center in No. Billerica and sing Christmas Carols in the Alzheimer's Unit on Christmas morning. This included friends and family (two of my grandchildren are 10 and 11). The grandchildren made small gifts for each of the patients which they personally gave to each patient. The Alzheimer's patients, some of whom never talk, could remember the words. Music is such a great thing to bring out the happiness and joy hidden in people. The last song we sang was the 12 Days of Christmas. We did fine until we got to the 12th day and no one could remember. We just stopped at 11 and no one knew the difference.
Both these traditions are such a rewarding experience and have given my family the real spirit of Christmas.
Blessings,
Deb Willard
Focusing on Christ
I don't know about the rest of you but seasons of business tend to threaten my time with God. At Advent many of us can find time to read and do daily devotionals with our kids. In an effort to consolidate tasks, I found myself tempted to "count" that as my own devotional time. While family devotions are really important, I've learned that I shouldn't let it replace my own prayer time. I am convinced that the most important thing for me to do during Christmas is to continue my one-on-one time with God- regardless of how many other things are on my plate. While I love praying with my kids (and I'm sure God does too), I don't tend to sit still in God's presence for long enough or open my heart as much when I'm worried about their needs.
On those days when I don't cast my cares upon Him, the wonderful and fun things on my "to do" list become overly important - all out of perspective.
So that's my suggestion- in addition to reading about Advent as a family, preserve and enjoy your time sitting quietly with your Heavenly Father.
Rachael
On those days when I don't cast my cares upon Him, the wonderful and fun things on my "to do" list become overly important - all out of perspective.
So that's my suggestion- in addition to reading about Advent as a family, preserve and enjoy your time sitting quietly with your Heavenly Father.
Rachael
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
A New Tradition of Giving
Here's a tradition we recently began that I'd like everyone to consider.
Stop giving to people who already have more than they need and start giving to people who don't have basic necessities of life.
There are many ways to do this:
Contact Servants for Haiti (info@servantsforhaiti.org), an organization based right here at GCC. In a loved one's name, you can donate a bag of rice, medical care for an orphan, an education for a child, or other needed gifts.
Buy something from the World Vision gift catalog: http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpSctDspRte.jsp?section=10389 . Who wouldn't want to receive a goat, some ducks, or a chicken for Christmas, knowing that it will change a family's life? The catalog has dozens of ideas in all price ranges.
Or give the gift of water: http://www.water.cc/ . Lack of access to clean drinking water is one of the major causes of death around the world. Americans will spend $450 billion this Christmas. It would only take $10 billion to give every human in the world clean water. ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K14c4NGuhDI )
I don't want to stand before my Savior at His throne (Mt 25) and explain why I spent the money He blessed me with to buy Zhu Zhu Pets for rich kids when children in other parts of the world are dying for lack of clean water to drink.
I wish we'd discovered the Advent Conspiracy years and years ago, but it's never too late. Repenting of my past extravagance means changing my present and my presents.
I want to celebrate Jesus's birth the way He would.
The Conti's
Stop giving to people who already have more than they need and start giving to people who don't have basic necessities of life.
There are many ways to do this:
Contact Servants for Haiti (info@servantsforhaiti.org), an organization based right here at GCC. In a loved one's name, you can donate a bag of rice, medical care for an orphan, an education for a child, or other needed gifts.
Buy something from the World Vision gift catalog: http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpSctDspRte.jsp?section=10389 . Who wouldn't want to receive a goat, some ducks, or a chicken for Christmas, knowing that it will change a family's life? The catalog has dozens of ideas in all price ranges.
Or give the gift of water: http://www.water.cc/ . Lack of access to clean drinking water is one of the major causes of death around the world. Americans will spend $450 billion this Christmas. It would only take $10 billion to give every human in the world clean water. ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K14c4NGuhDI )
I don't want to stand before my Savior at His throne (Mt 25) and explain why I spent the money He blessed me with to buy Zhu Zhu Pets for rich kids when children in other parts of the world are dying for lack of clean water to drink.
I wish we'd discovered the Advent Conspiracy years and years ago, but it's never too late. Repenting of my past extravagance means changing my present and my presents.
I want to celebrate Jesus's birth the way He would.
The Conti's
The Tradition of Family
When Rob gave us the little push on Sunday to be brave and speak about a story, he was describing me when he suggested "maybe you think 'my story isn't special'". I thought the purpose of the Advent blog was to detail how selfless acts were done during the holidays, or to highlight a noble act done as a family. I'm not saying my family are savages, but I also don't have a memory of surrendering our day to help in a soup kitchen (though I wish we would have and I think it's a phenomenal idea!) But my family does have traditions. And I value them, and the time. So...if these submissions really don't have to be spectacular...here goes.
Christmas Eve has gone the same since I could form memories. (well, we don't put out milk and cookies for Santa anymore, but you get the idea.) We, as a family, open one gift on Christmas Eve, and they are always pajamas. I can't give you an explanation as to why. Perhaps it was for a new feeling of comfort and relaxation each year. Or maybe it was just for fun pictures the next day, because once we opened the present, we wore the pjs to bed, and opened all gifts and stockings still in them the next morning. After we each got new sleepwear (believe or not, we are always excited about the upcoming pjs. We even request the kinds we might like on our "lists".) my father reads the Christmas Story. The four of us (my mom, my sister, my father and I) sit close together while he reads from Luke 2:1-16. For a while, when my sister and I were young, and even sometimes during high school if my memory serves me correctly, my mother would proceed my father's reading by reading The Night Before Christmas. We had the golden book version and loved seeing the pictures and hearing the words. (Then my father would tell the true story by reading from Luke.)
Christmas day, we usually wake and begin by opening our stockings first (I sometimes argue that this is the best part, digging for the little surprises, each of us taking turns watching the other, to see what they will find). Then we watch each other open presents; it was never a free for all, ripping in unison. We took joy in seeing the response for whatever we could afford for presents that year. Even the small things were appreciated. And as we all get older into our adult lives, we know that it never was about those presents. I vividly remember, two years ago, sitting with my family in Missouri with my nephew there smiling. He who had just survived major, heart-valve reconstructive surgery that we were never promised he'd survive from. It was my mom, my dad, my sister, my brother-in-law, my miraculous nephew, and me -- watching traditions continue. I shed tears, silently while overcome with the joy of being together. I don't even remember what anyone got that day or what anyone asked for. I was filled with such love, it just overflowed. This year, my mom has been worried, because traditions are falling to the wayside with the lack of finances. We couldn't do annual ornaments (another tradition for each family member), and the pjs probably won't come this year. But while on the phone with her as she revealed these likelihoods, I never blinked. I immediately assured her, that who cared about that? At all? We get to be together (as corny, but completely true as it is) and even if we only do the $1 filled stockings, we'll have a great time. Last year we didn't all get to celebrate together, the year before that our little Gabe was given back to us, this year we'll have a newborn with us again as my 2nd nephew (Gabe's little brother) will be introduced to the world 3 days before the holiday. There isn't much more we could want or ask for, is there? So worrying about wrapped presents or keeping up traditions is moot. That will be how we give more, how we love all in the miracle of life and of family. It is the quintessential way to worship fully -- by realizing all blessings bestowed on us this year.
Leigh Kay
Christmas Eve has gone the same since I could form memories. (well, we don't put out milk and cookies for Santa anymore, but you get the idea.) We, as a family, open one gift on Christmas Eve, and they are always pajamas. I can't give you an explanation as to why. Perhaps it was for a new feeling of comfort and relaxation each year. Or maybe it was just for fun pictures the next day, because once we opened the present, we wore the pjs to bed, and opened all gifts and stockings still in them the next morning. After we each got new sleepwear (believe or not, we are always excited about the upcoming pjs. We even request the kinds we might like on our "lists".) my father reads the Christmas Story. The four of us (my mom, my sister, my father and I) sit close together while he reads from Luke 2:1-16. For a while, when my sister and I were young, and even sometimes during high school if my memory serves me correctly, my mother would proceed my father's reading by reading The Night Before Christmas. We had the golden book version and loved seeing the pictures and hearing the words. (Then my father would tell the true story by reading from Luke.)
Christmas day, we usually wake and begin by opening our stockings first (I sometimes argue that this is the best part, digging for the little surprises, each of us taking turns watching the other, to see what they will find). Then we watch each other open presents; it was never a free for all, ripping in unison. We took joy in seeing the response for whatever we could afford for presents that year. Even the small things were appreciated. And as we all get older into our adult lives, we know that it never was about those presents. I vividly remember, two years ago, sitting with my family in Missouri with my nephew there smiling. He who had just survived major, heart-valve reconstructive surgery that we were never promised he'd survive from. It was my mom, my dad, my sister, my brother-in-law, my miraculous nephew, and me -- watching traditions continue. I shed tears, silently while overcome with the joy of being together. I don't even remember what anyone got that day or what anyone asked for. I was filled with such love, it just overflowed. This year, my mom has been worried, because traditions are falling to the wayside with the lack of finances. We couldn't do annual ornaments (another tradition for each family member), and the pjs probably won't come this year. But while on the phone with her as she revealed these likelihoods, I never blinked. I immediately assured her, that who cared about that? At all? We get to be together (as corny, but completely true as it is) and even if we only do the $1 filled stockings, we'll have a great time. Last year we didn't all get to celebrate together, the year before that our little Gabe was given back to us, this year we'll have a newborn with us again as my 2nd nephew (Gabe's little brother) will be introduced to the world 3 days before the holiday. There isn't much more we could want or ask for, is there? So worrying about wrapped presents or keeping up traditions is moot. That will be how we give more, how we love all in the miracle of life and of family. It is the quintessential way to worship fully -- by realizing all blessings bestowed on us this year.
Leigh Kay
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
A Tradition Touched by Grace
This past weekend my family and I made our annual pilgrimage to buy our Christmas tree. On the brief ride to “Jones Farm” we tried to remember if we had ever bought our tree anywhere else – oh, maybe once we had gone with a few other families and actually cut down a tree, but that was such a long time ago… “this” was our tradition. And as our tradition dictated, once again we laughed as our daughter was drawn to the largest tree on the lot … and once again we laughed as our son decided that tying Christmas trees to the roof of a car would not be a very “fun” job… again we reminisced about the day we bought our tree in a snow storm and had to let it dry in the garage… and we laughed as we remembered how every year we turn a ten minute car ride home into a twenty minute car ride because we worry that the tree will fall off the roof of our car… this year was no different!
As soon as we were home and the tree was wrestled into it’s stand, the decorating began. As my children untangled and tested the tree lights, I took an opportunity to log onto Facebook. My friend Diane had posted her status. She wrote, “Decorating our Christmas tree by myself again…” I laughed as I read her words, I could just picture that!…. I then rejoined my family as we strung the lights and the wooden cranberry strands, around and around the tree. “Why do we put these cranberries on our tree when they look so bad?”, “Because Dad and I bought those for our first tree”… and so it goes. .. stories told, and memories shared, year after year after year. Each ornament a story unto itself…. each with a history that we never seem to tire of hearing or telling… Ornaments bought on every family vacation… ornaments representing every sport our children have played, ornaments given to us from beloved family members. We have our “ugliest” ornament and our “tackiest” ornament. And then there’s the ornament that resembles a cookie…It was hand made by our daughter in a preschool class so many years ago and as it rested on the kitchen counter way back when - wouldn’t you know that dad tried to eat it…!
Later that evening, when the tree was all trimmed, I began thinking about my friend’s Facebook posting… It saddened me now as I thought of her trimming her tree all alone… And then I realized, how blind could I have been?? What had seemed to be just another typical Christmas tradition – and clearly one I had taken for granted – was actually a tremendous gift! A gift of spending time with my beloved family.
Oh but how quickly my feelings of gratitude started to blur as I took my eyes off God and His blessing and placed them sinfully on myself… I began wondering, “Oh my goodness, what if next Christmas I am the mom posting my dismay of having to decorate the Christmas tree all by myself?… what if my two teenagers decide that this is no longer their tradition??” Hadn’t I already noticed some distance growing between us? Hadn’t I noticed how much time they now spend behind closed doors in the their bedrooms and how our conversations are often reduced to “sound bites”??? These thoughts were flooding my mind with fear….
Thankfully our Lord and Savior did not leave me there…. God’s grace “stepped in” and reminded me of His Word that He shared with me only days before, “Don’t worry about missing out… Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” (Matthew 6 – The Message).
This blessed Christmas season may we spend less time worrying and being fearful about tomorrow. May we give more time to God and the people He has blessed us with. May we love with the love God gives us and be more grateful. And, may we worship fully the One Who makes all things possible.
Hilary Langille
As soon as we were home and the tree was wrestled into it’s stand, the decorating began. As my children untangled and tested the tree lights, I took an opportunity to log onto Facebook. My friend Diane had posted her status. She wrote, “Decorating our Christmas tree by myself again…” I laughed as I read her words, I could just picture that!…. I then rejoined my family as we strung the lights and the wooden cranberry strands, around and around the tree. “Why do we put these cranberries on our tree when they look so bad?”, “Because Dad and I bought those for our first tree”… and so it goes. .. stories told, and memories shared, year after year after year. Each ornament a story unto itself…. each with a history that we never seem to tire of hearing or telling… Ornaments bought on every family vacation… ornaments representing every sport our children have played, ornaments given to us from beloved family members. We have our “ugliest” ornament and our “tackiest” ornament. And then there’s the ornament that resembles a cookie…It was hand made by our daughter in a preschool class so many years ago and as it rested on the kitchen counter way back when - wouldn’t you know that dad tried to eat it…!
Later that evening, when the tree was all trimmed, I began thinking about my friend’s Facebook posting… It saddened me now as I thought of her trimming her tree all alone… And then I realized, how blind could I have been?? What had seemed to be just another typical Christmas tradition – and clearly one I had taken for granted – was actually a tremendous gift! A gift of spending time with my beloved family.
Oh but how quickly my feelings of gratitude started to blur as I took my eyes off God and His blessing and placed them sinfully on myself… I began wondering, “Oh my goodness, what if next Christmas I am the mom posting my dismay of having to decorate the Christmas tree all by myself?… what if my two teenagers decide that this is no longer their tradition??” Hadn’t I already noticed some distance growing between us? Hadn’t I noticed how much time they now spend behind closed doors in the their bedrooms and how our conversations are often reduced to “sound bites”??? These thoughts were flooding my mind with fear….
Thankfully our Lord and Savior did not leave me there…. God’s grace “stepped in” and reminded me of His Word that He shared with me only days before, “Don’t worry about missing out… Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” (Matthew 6 – The Message).
This blessed Christmas season may we spend less time worrying and being fearful about tomorrow. May we give more time to God and the people He has blessed us with. May we love with the love God gives us and be more grateful. And, may we worship fully the One Who makes all things possible.
Hilary Langille
Monday, December 7, 2009
Straight to Luke on Christmas Morning
We have one tradition that is inviolable. The first thing we do on Christmas morning, still yawning and cleaning sleep from our eyes, is read the Christmas story from Luke. As simple as it sounds, it centers our hearts on the center of the celebration. God became man. He humbled himself to be born in poverty, in the muck and stench of a stable, before He humbled Himself on a cross. Just as He set the tone for His life on that first day, His Story sets the tone for our day.
The Conti's
The Conti's
Advent every morning
"We're enjoying a very long, slow season of anticipation as we wait for the coming of the infant Jesus. Every morning we light our candles, open a devotion book, read God's Word, open a door in our Advent book, sing a carol, and pray. This liturgy gets our day going and our hearts pointed in the right direction."
(from a relative of a Grace Community attendee)
(from a relative of a Grace Community attendee)
Traditions from a former Angel Tree Child
As a former "Angel Tree Child", there were many Christmas' that were happy only because there were others willing to share their blessings with our family. Thankfully, my sons do not have a childhood that looks anything like my own. However, I do want my boys' to know we are richly blessed and there are many less fortunate people in the world. Thus, it is very important for my husband and I to share this thrill of blessing others throughout the Christmas season. We are also intentional about planning and budgeting for gifts to our children. Below are a few of our Christmas traditions to help keep our focus on the celebration of the birth of our Savior and the Good News his birth brought to the world.
1. Before any gifts go under our tree, the boys make a donation box from the toys in their room and we make a trip together to drop the boxes off at a donation center.
2. For the past several years we have participated in Franklin Graham's Operation Christmas Child.
3. Jesus received three gifts from the wise men, so our boys receive three packages from us. This allows us to keep a budget and make it through Christmas debt free!
4. We can not pass a Salvation Army red bucket or bell ringers without putting something in the bucket. Yes, this sometimes requires a special trip to the ATM in order to have something to place int the bucket!
5. Each boy chooses a gift for other children either from an Angel tree or Toys for Tots.
6. The first ornament on our tree is the Christmas nail - to remind us that wood from a tree would one day be used for Jesus’ cross.
7. Christmas Eve Candle Service followed by a drive to look at Christmas lights. We go on a Nativity hunt, counting the number of nativities we see. It is amazing how the boys' remember the previous year's number of nativities to compare it too!
8. We do a random act of kindness– like giving an extra $25 – $100 (depends on the year and our budget) on a tip at a restaurant, or making a random payment on someone’s lay away at a store.
9. We do an advent calendar readings, and last year we added the advent wreath to our dinner table along with an advent story.
10. Our newest one is the Happy Birthday Jesus cake. The bottom layer is chocolate to represent sin. The middle is red for the blood Jesus shed for our sins. The top layer is green for the new life we receive after accepting Christ as our savior. The icing is white to represent Christ’s pureness. There is a yellow star in the middle of the cake for the star of Bethlehem. Placed in the center of the star is a larger purple candle to represent Jesus himself, the King of Kings. Encircling the star and Jesus candle are small candles for each person present. The circular cake represents the world and there are hearts on the sides of the cake to represent our goal of spreading God’s love around the world. After the Jesus candle is lit, each person lights their candle from His. We sing “Happy Birthday” and everyone blows out the candles.
Stephen & Peggy Brooks
1. Before any gifts go under our tree, the boys make a donation box from the toys in their room and we make a trip together to drop the boxes off at a donation center.
2. For the past several years we have participated in Franklin Graham's Operation Christmas Child.
3. Jesus received three gifts from the wise men, so our boys receive three packages from us. This allows us to keep a budget and make it through Christmas debt free!
4. We can not pass a Salvation Army red bucket or bell ringers without putting something in the bucket. Yes, this sometimes requires a special trip to the ATM in order to have something to place int the bucket!
5. Each boy chooses a gift for other children either from an Angel tree or Toys for Tots.
6. The first ornament on our tree is the Christmas nail - to remind us that wood from a tree would one day be used for Jesus’ cross.
7. Christmas Eve Candle Service followed by a drive to look at Christmas lights. We go on a Nativity hunt, counting the number of nativities we see. It is amazing how the boys' remember the previous year's number of nativities to compare it too!
8. We do a random act of kindness– like giving an extra $25 – $100 (depends on the year and our budget) on a tip at a restaurant, or making a random payment on someone’s lay away at a store.
9. We do an advent calendar readings, and last year we added the advent wreath to our dinner table along with an advent story.
10. Our newest one is the Happy Birthday Jesus cake. The bottom layer is chocolate to represent sin. The middle is red for the blood Jesus shed for our sins. The top layer is green for the new life we receive after accepting Christ as our savior. The icing is white to represent Christ’s pureness. There is a yellow star in the middle of the cake for the star of Bethlehem. Placed in the center of the star is a larger purple candle to represent Jesus himself, the King of Kings. Encircling the star and Jesus candle are small candles for each person present. The circular cake represents the world and there are hearts on the sides of the cake to represent our goal of spreading God’s love around the world. After the Jesus candle is lit, each person lights their candle from His. We sing “Happy Birthday” and everyone blows out the candles.
Stephen & Peggy Brooks
Gifts for the everyday work
I've always enjoy baking different types of Christmas cookies and sharing them with coworkers and friends. I also put plate of wrapped cookies in my mailbox and Globe box with a card and money gift or DD card. For the trash and recycling guys, I set out a thermos of coffee with to-go cups, milk and sugar on the side,in a box turned sideways with a placemat to make it kind of nice. I put out a plate of cookies for them to take and a card with two or three DD gift-cards, usually the amount of guys that are working. They always appreciate a small break in their routine and are grateful for the gesture, and I love doing it.
The problem this year is that now we have just one big blue barrel that's taken by mechanical arms; how to make the driver see the cookies? I'll work on that one.
Cyn
The problem this year is that now we have just one big blue barrel that's taken by mechanical arms; how to make the driver see the cookies? I'll work on that one.
Cyn
Sunday, December 6, 2009
7 Nativities
We display 7 nativity sets throughout the house as a beautiful and constant reminder as to what the season is about. When Luke was small I used to move the angel and put her some place in the house where he would come upon her so he could return her to her nativity set. I would also switch Joseph or a shepherd or a king from one nativity set to another and when he found them in the wrong manger he would have to remember where the other mangers were and put them back where they go. Over the past few years he has delighted in returning the fun. Luke also gets to put Jesus in all the mangers on Christmas morning which reminds us to celebrate His birth on that day.
Tracy MacKenzie
Tracy MacKenzie
A simpler Christmas
When our children were small (now 26 and 28), we started the tradition (with our extended family members) to make Christmas gifts ourselves. We have wonderful memories of planning, and spending time together to make gifts for cousins, uncles and aunts. Gifts they would truly enjoy and have good use of. Christmas memories include being amazed at each others skill and effort. The gifts were always very simple. Fudge, marmalade, cookies, small articles with folk art paintings, traditional Christmas cake, the list goes on. Everything baked or made from scratch. Most of the time we would use favorite family recipes. Often with home made tags and lots of thought put into the packaging. Always simple, inexpensive, but stylish.
We are still doing it today. The best part is, seeing how our daughter is keeping the same tradition in her own family and with her in-laws today. We are doing very little Christmas shopping, unaffected by the race and spending habits. We do not know what it means to be overwhelmed by Christmas expenses and hours of shopping.
We pray that this Christmas season will be a time of true rest and peace for you and your family.
Tian and Engelie Blomerus
We are still doing it today. The best part is, seeing how our daughter is keeping the same tradition in her own family and with her in-laws today. We are doing very little Christmas shopping, unaffected by the race and spending habits. We do not know what it means to be overwhelmed by Christmas expenses and hours of shopping.
We pray that this Christmas season will be a time of true rest and peace for you and your family.
Tian and Engelie Blomerus
Got Giving?
In 2 Corinthians 6-15, Paul describes a cheerful giver. Let's take a look on what he thought we ought to do:
Sowing Generously
6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
This is what We [me & my family] will do this Christmas to support the Kingdom of God. IN ADDITION to our monthly tithe, and our contributions to relief organizations, we will make an extra Gift of $45 every first week of the month starting now, to support our church family here at Grace! Why? Because hard works lays before us, to truly spread the "good news" and sow the seed the God has given us. And guess what. This Church will be a Beacon of light in New England, and we don't want to be the goat on the left field, do we?
So what do you say? Will you join me in growing the kingdom of God? Remember, it's just $45 | $1.50/day | $10.50/week
Believe me, if I can do that, you sure can too. And so I close this post with a dream and prayer that we all will truly see the love of Jesus entering our lives this season, transforming our hearts, removing our worries and challenge us to for once, deeply trust in our God!
(from a Grace Community attendee)
Sowing Generously
6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 14 And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
This is what We [me & my family] will do this Christmas to support the Kingdom of God. IN ADDITION to our monthly tithe, and our contributions to relief organizations, we will make an extra Gift of $45 every first week of the month starting now, to support our church family here at Grace! Why? Because hard works lays before us, to truly spread the "good news" and sow the seed the God has given us. And guess what. This Church will be a Beacon of light in New England, and we don't want to be the goat on the left field, do we?
So what do you say? Will you join me in growing the kingdom of God? Remember, it's just $45 | $1.50/day | $10.50/week
Believe me, if I can do that, you sure can too. And so I close this post with a dream and prayer that we all will truly see the love of Jesus entering our lives this season, transforming our hearts, removing our worries and challenge us to for once, deeply trust in our God!
(from a Grace Community attendee)
12 Days of Celebration
My wife and I have developed several traditions for the Advent and Christmas seasons to get away from the way the world celebrates the holiday, and to come to a fuller celebration of Christ's Birth.
One thing we do is to see Advent and Christmas time differently. We use the 4 weeks before Christmas to reflect and prepare for Christmas. And then, when Christmas comes, we celebrate for 12 days! While during advent we focus on getting ready, during the 12 Days we focus on giving, finding different themes each day on whom and what we give, and having fun!
This really takes the pressure off the shopping and the hectic preparation for one day, because we have 12 days to celebrate amd give, not just one. It helps us focus on Christ's birth, too, because we spend Advent, not rushing around preparing, but meditating on Emmanuel.
(from a Grace Community attendee)
One thing we do is to see Advent and Christmas time differently. We use the 4 weeks before Christmas to reflect and prepare for Christmas. And then, when Christmas comes, we celebrate for 12 days! While during advent we focus on getting ready, during the 12 Days we focus on giving, finding different themes each day on whom and what we give, and having fun!
This really takes the pressure off the shopping and the hectic preparation for one day, because we have 12 days to celebrate amd give, not just one. It helps us focus on Christ's birth, too, because we spend Advent, not rushing around preparing, but meditating on Emmanuel.
(from a Grace Community attendee)
Friday, December 4, 2009
A life focused on giving...
This is so awesome!
Certainly we all forget at times, what Christmas is all about!
In a time, where instant satisfaction is so important, gifts are so important, too. Imagine the eyes of your children if they only receive 1 gift. Imagine the looks from your friends when you tell them about just giving 1 gift, hm.
The question remains, aren't we [the faithful] at fault here?
Did not we create children that "need" more and more by not living a life that focuses more on giving, rather than receiving.
"As for me and my house, we serve the lord."
Maybe, just maybe, this year we can change that, and we buy 1/4 gift for every gift we bought for someone else and give it to some one who has nothing. Or, if that is to radical for you. Just take 1/4 of the money you spend on stuff that actually will end up in your or someone else's basement in about 3 month, and give it to an organization that helps those in need.
Remember this: w.w.j.d.? How about you remember that saying this year every time you go "Christmas"-shopping. It helps me a lot when I question myself if Jesus would really by the 5th gift for my wife, or if he wold go and change the world with that money......
(from a Grace Community attendee)
Certainly we all forget at times, what Christmas is all about!
In a time, where instant satisfaction is so important, gifts are so important, too. Imagine the eyes of your children if they only receive 1 gift. Imagine the looks from your friends when you tell them about just giving 1 gift, hm.
The question remains, aren't we [the faithful] at fault here?
Did not we create children that "need" more and more by not living a life that focuses more on giving, rather than receiving.
"As for me and my house, we serve the lord."
Maybe, just maybe, this year we can change that, and we buy 1/4 gift for every gift we bought for someone else and give it to some one who has nothing. Or, if that is to radical for you. Just take 1/4 of the money you spend on stuff that actually will end up in your or someone else's basement in about 3 month, and give it to an organization that helps those in need.
Remember this: w.w.j.d.? How about you remember that saying this year every time you go "Christmas"-shopping. It helps me a lot when I question myself if Jesus would really by the 5th gift for my wife, or if he wold go and change the world with that money......
(from a Grace Community attendee)
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