Throwback Thursday- Christmas Style

With Christmas fast approaching I wanted to take some time to share the most important holiday read aloud- the Bible.  There are so many great stories about there about Christmas and the true meaning of Christmas, but we need to make sure that our children actually hear the true story of Christmas. 

Of the four gospels the only two that have the actual story of Jesus' birth are Matthew and Luke. Mark and John both tell the story of John the Baptist proselytizing about the coming of Jesus. I think you should choose whichever one you feel is best for your children, or maybe try reading all of them.  It would be great conversation comparing the different stories of Jesus' birth.  

With all the commercial and materialism surrounding Christmas now, we must stop and refocus ourselves and our children on what the real story of Christmas is.  Santa, his elves and reindeer are so fun to believe in and talk about but we MUST continue to believe in and talk about Jesus, his birth, his service and his sacrifice for us.  

My son is still pretty young but we have started a couple of traditions this year.  First we light our advent wreath at dinner time.  The wreath consists of 4 candles, one is lit each week of advent.  The light of the candles signify Christ and the prayer and preparation going on during this time of waiting. 

We also bought an advent calendar for our son.  He really enjoys adding a different character to the scene each day.  We talk briefly about the angels, wise men, shepherds or Mary and Joseph each day and emphasize that we are waiting for baby Jesus to get here.  Here is a picture of the one that we have.  It came from Fisher Price. 

What traditions do you have in your home to keep the Christmas focus on Christ?  

Happy Reading!

Laura