A real celebration Letters to my family

My Darling Children;

As Christmas quickly approaches it is hard not to be bombarded by the images of Santa, reindeer and holiday specials. Everywhere you turn, people are preparing to celebrate the season based on their family traditions. It would be so easy to get swept up in all that is happening and lose focus on the importance of the season. For me looking at and reflecting on the nativity scene, one of my favourite symbols of the season, helps me to refocus.

The nativity scene is a representation of the special day Jesus came to earth. Born to loving parents who though unsure and scared in the beginning trusted in God's loving hand to guide them. They were surrounded by others who are simply in awe of his birth and the magnificent gift bestowed to all people. I look at this scene, reflect on the reason for this glorious season and am thankful for that day.

Something that never ceases to amaze me is how much I can see our family in this scene. Each of you at one time was our infant. Our newest pride and joy. Our most recent gift from God. When each of you was little your dad and I stood over you thankful for your life and in awe of what was to come. We were always surrounded by those who loved us and celebrated in your birth. As God trusted Mary and Joseph with his son he has to trusted us with his children.

I am glad I have been able to find a symbol that re-focuses my attention on the true reason and importance of the season but wonder how can I bring the true meaning alive for you. On top of repeatedly discussing the significance of Christmas, having visual reminders around our house, and participating in extra seasonal church activities, the last couple of years we have baked a cake and sung happy birthday to Jesus. We have all enjoyed this special twist on the day and I have found the early morning celebration a great boost before opening presents.

Birthdays are an important celebration in our family. The anticipation mounts for weeks before hand, preparations are made, family gathers to celebrate, a meal is shared and gifts are opened. These same things are done on Christmas day. Unfortunately, as the day progresses the religious focus seems to get lost and the secular focus takes over. Although Santa will still be arriving at our house, I hope to keep him on the back burner by creating a new tradition and having a true birthday celebration for Jesus.

I believe this is possible by simply changing our thinking about the day. Our anticipation can be about having an amazing birthday celebration with our family. A meal will be shared and toasts of praise and thanks can be offered. We can each bring a special gift for Jesus. Something we make, we buy or we find, or a good deed we do in his name. Things we do anyway but maybe this time with a little extra thought. The presents you receive could be seen as loot bags - admittedly larger than we are used to but often a staple at birthday parties. A day full of joy and celebration, filled with thanks for the birth we are celebrating.

Even I admit that some of my ideas may seem like I am simply splitting hairs. However, it is a start and as time goes by I see the possibility of an amazing tradition forming here. For now trust me in this undertaking and get out the paper and markers because we have some birthday party invitations to make.

May you continue to grow in peace.