Many people have happy memories of the season leading up to Christmas. Family traditions involved in decorating their house, watching certain movies, listening to music, enjoying special meals, rituals, and outings.
One tradition that was part of my childhood was family devotions during the Advent season. We lit a new candle on our Advent wreath each week, as my parents, my four siblings, and I sat around the table after dinner. My father read a short devotion from one of the books we had, reviewing Bible stories and prophecies leading up to and through the account of our Savior’s birth.
My wife and I have established this “tradition” with our children, not just during Advent but throughout the year. But there is still something special about this Advent season with the glow of the candles and the growing anticipation of Christmas. It can be difficult, as our children grow older and schedules get busier, but it something I never want to give up. I am so blessed to watch my children grow in faith and understanding. And I pray that this tradition begun in their youth will continue throughout their lives.
I pray that these words will encourage you to begin or continue such a tradition in your home, whether it is a tradition you enjoy alone or with a spouse or family (or all of the above). Through a few extra moments each day in God’s Word, your preparations for Christmas will be blessed.
This Advent, my family and I have incorporated the devotional orders on pages 244 or 246 in Christian Worship into our evening devotion time. Perhaps you might do the same.
Here are the readings and hymns planned for use at Riverview Lutheran Church, Appleton, WI, next Sunday, December 12:
- Readings: Zephaniah 3:14-17; Philippians 4:4-7; Luke 3:7-18
- Hymns: Rejoice, My Heart, Be Glad and Sing (827); O Lord, How Shall I Meet You (324); Rejoice, the Lord is King (524); Comfort, Comfort All My People (312); May the Peace of God (929)
Finally, I’ll again point you to a posting of several devotional resources, some of which are assigned specifically for the Advent season of the year.
May God bless your growth in faith, as you meditate on his Word this week!
Your brother in Christ,
Pastor Wagner
Together in the Word 