Appealing to the Senses
Dear Friends,
Our Advent Bible Study this year has focused on the lessons we learn from Ebenezer Scrooge in
A Christmas Carol
. One of the things we have discussed is the way that past, present, and future seem to come together in the Advent season. We remember the birth of Jesus (his first advent), celebrate that today in our worship services, and also look forward to his second coming (second advent). In this season we are bombarded by new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, etc. Everything seems to change. Our houses have decorations (think Christmas lights), delicious holiday treats, holiday music, Christmas greetings, etc. It’s some of the stuff we love best.
One of the things that counselors often encourage families to do to strengthen ties is to participate in meaningful traditions that bring people together around this time of year. Maybe you decorate the tree/house together. Maybe you make a certain type of cookie or enjoy a specific holiday meal. Maybe you go to the same Christmas Eve worship service. Maybe you go and visit neighbors to share goodies, cards, and cheer. Maybe you sing carols around the piano or the tree or fireplace. Sometimes it may seem inconvenient to continue the traditions, but if they still make sense and still have meaning then make them a priority.
We infuse meaning into our family traditions and our children pick up on that. So let’s make sure that we have a healthy dose of tradition and practice that focuses on the gift of God this Christmas. Jesus was born so that we might have new life. He came so that we might be reconciled to God and to one another. He came to teach us what it means to walk in faithfulness as God’s people. He came to save us and set us free. Let’s make sure that our senses are filled with the awe and wonder that comes from meditating on the meaning of the best gift of all.
To God be the Glory!
Robert
