Holidays are about passing traditions that connect the past to the present to the future. Traditions:
- connect former generations and values [Past]
- connect you to people you love [Present]
- help you pass on your values to the future generations [Future]
We create traditions by celebrating VALUES through an EVENT with people we love, and we REPEAT it annually (if you enjoyed it) with the hope that the next generation CONTINUES THE CELEBRATION. Connections can be made with our senses (food, decorations, music, scents, celebrations . . . ) as we reinforce the foundation of our beliefs.
One generation makes known your faithfulness to the next.
Isaiah 38:19 [Living Bible]
When celebrating the Advent, we are excited . . . and we are expectant! We want to celebrate the joy and anticipation of the coming of Jesus Christ our King! All this being said, it helps to have a plan! For 2014, we can look at the calendar and set-aside time to make each weekend meaningful – even if it means just scheduling some “do-nothing-downtime” so we can snuggle with a good movie or book with our favorite people. Below is a general “Plan” to help you map out your month. Fill in the Event/Activity that is the most meaningful for your family:
Date – – – Meaning / Value – – – Event / Activity
1st Sunday of Advent – – – “Preparation” – – – [ . . . fill in your favorite family activity . . . ]
2nd Sunday of Advent – – – “Love” – – – [ . . . fill in your favorite family activity . . . ]
3rd Sunday of Advent – – – “Joy” – – – [ . . . fill in your favorite family activity . . . ]
4th Sunday of Advent – – – “God’s Gift” – – – [ . . . fill in your favorite family activity . . . ]
Christmas Eve/Day – – – “Jesus” – – – [ . . . fill in your favorite family activity . . . ]
Some suggested ideas for your celebrations:
- Pick out a Christmas tree
- Decorate the house
- Have a movie night and watch favorite Christmas movies
- Bake holiday treats
- Help an older person put up Christmas decorations
- Attend a Christmas concert
- Sing carols with church, friends . . .
- Reading by the fireplace or by candle
What expectations of you have for December? Remember, it is okay to toss out the ones that create stress for your family. Get our your calendar and make sure your dreams and expectations fit a realistic family schedule, and choose the celebrations and meals that enhance the meaning of the season.