Our “main” Nativiy
“This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”- Luke 2:10
We have a tradition in our home that may be a little different than that of other families. The first decoration we put out each Christmas is our main Nativity. We gather the family around and read the story of the birth of Jesus. As each character is identified in the story they are placed in our nativity. We even light the star when it is mentioned in the scriptures.
We have done this with our own children, foster kids, nieces and nephews. This is a great way for us to kick off the holiday decorating and to remind our children of the real meaning of Christmas. Our nativity is not an expensive elaborate set. However, to me it is an item of great value because of the memories that I have of our traditions with this set.
We actually have 4 nativity scenes in our home. Each one is present as a way to help keep my mind and the minds of my family on the true meaning of Christmas. It is so easy to become caught up in gifts, lights, Santa and elves that we forget why we really have Christmas. My hope is that the nativities in my home will help to refocus our minds as needed.
Our Pastor has been doing a series called “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Each week he has focused on different elements of the Nativity scene. One week he talked about Mary and Joseph. The message centered around how men need to lead their families, and how women need to not wait for the man to lead to do the right things. The second week focused on the Angels and how they announced the birth of Jesus. This was tied into the songs we sing at Christmas– are we worshiping with the songs or have they just become background noise. Today he will be speaking about the shepherds. This has truly been one of the best Christmas message series I have ever heard. Hopefully, they will post the messages online and I can send out a link.
Family Room
Dining Room
Kitchen