Each year, I try to create or add to a Christmas tradition that will bring me closer to God. Instead of filling my evenings with holiday parties, I try to attend my church’s weekly Advent service. I’ve taken time from shopping and creating the perfect Christmas wish list to host a day of play for the children at my church to learn about the season of waiting. It’s still a work in progress but taking time to distance myself from traditions that distract me from Jesus makes me more calm, rooted and intentional during the weeks leading up to Christmas.
When I think of new traditions I want to start or those I want to distance myself from, I find myself drawn back to Jesus’ teachings and the example he set for us. Are there traditions I’m holding onto that aren’t in alignment with Jesus’ gospel of acceptance and grace? How can I create a new tradition that brings me closer to Jesus on my path of discipleship?
This message is excerpted from “Traditions to break and create” by SommerAnn McCollough in the November 2018 Café online magazine.
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