But there's no hoping for Saint Nick here. I have to admit, my kids dont know who Santa is. We havent mentioned him yet. And Im sure at some point they will here of this famous guy, the story of him coming down the chimney and all, bringing gifts in a big bag. And then we'll have to explain it all.
But until then, we're telling our kids about someone else who came at Christmas, and who we wait for and worship, and who is the greatest gift of all. Its ok if they know about Santa, but I want them to know Christ.
And so again this year, we've tried to keep our traditions pointing to what is most important. We've celebrated Advent with candles, and we've read the christmas story from the gospels. Jonas likes the story, but he keeps asking for the Easter story. (He likes the blood and gore and mystery of it)
Ive enjoyed reading the Easter story in December anyway...after all, the story of Jesus in the manger points to easter all the while. We need to remember WHY he came in the first place. Not to be a good teacher, or a noble leader, but as the Christ and redeemer of all.
So Santa, sorry, you just can't compare.
By the way, our annual Christmas letter is posted with a link to the right! Enjoy catching up
with us....
6 comments:
Isaak was drawn to Jesus dying on the cross last year too, and now Santa threatens to take over!
We aren't doing Santa until we have to (if we ever have to) with our kids, either. We're trying to focus on the Reason for the Season around here, too. ;)
The girls know about Santa - not from us but from others who keep mentioning him. The girls are always asked if they've written their lists and if they're excited for Santa to get here. They always say, "No.". You should see the looks we get, but that's o.k. I agree with you 100%. They need to know more about Christ. I'm always proud of them when they talk about Jesus more than Santa.
I love this post! You have such a way with words and I love the concept of thinking about who we wait for and that He is the greatest gift that we can hope for - or that we can pray for our kids to worship!
Wonderful post, Jen. And nice Christmas letter too.
You are wonderful with words. We use the same approach...the first major hitch is when strange old ladies at the grocery store start asking your kids if they have been good this year and what Santa is going to bring them.
Post a Comment