Northside Journey

Your Family’s Christmas

We all have our own family traditions for the way we celebrate Christmas. Some open presents on Christmas Eve and wait till Christmas morning to see what has appeared in the stockings.. Others hold all gift opening till Christmas morning. Some have a big meal on Christmas Eve. Others have always gathered the entire family around the table at high noon on Christmas day.

Our family tradition has not changed since I was a child (and probably before). There is an order to things and everyone knows what to expect: First we go caroling to friends and neighbors (usually in red earmuffs, sort of odd in McAllen’s 80 degree Christmas weather). Back at the house, no presents are opened until the youngest reader has read the Christmas story from the bible, reminding all of the true meaning of Christmas.

I don’t necessarily recommend the caroling part unless you have a particularly gifted musical family. But I DO recommend the bible reading. If scripture is not already a part of your family’s celebration, this would be a great time to start a new tradition. Here’s a suggested order of service for your own gathering around the tree:

1, “Joy to the World”
(Sung with gusto, no PowerPoint required)

2. Prayer of Thanks for Family and for God’s Blessings
(Give the pray-er advance notice)

3. Reading of the Biblical Christmas Story – Luke 2:1-14
(Read by youngest reader OR one verse per person)

4. "Silent Night"
(Sung with reverence)

5. Closing Prayer of Thanks for the Baby Jesus
(Prayer voiced by Adult or Student)

6. Presents Opened

However it is that you celebrate Christmas, find ways for your family to remember the Christ child, Emmanuel, God with Us. Take advantage of the teachable moment to remind one and all of how and why he came.

From our family to yours,
Merry Christmas!

Bro. Mickey