This restored the celebration of Christmas as a family and community celebration of a joyous miraculous occasion, and the exchange of gifts at Christmas as expressions of that happiness. The fun of a big family gathering replaced the materialism of a big pile of gifts. We can use it as another place to communicate the message of the importance of family, and the human joy of Christmas. We look forward to seeing them every year. Leave the beautifully decorated perfect trees in the impersonal shopping centres where they belong.
Perfection is for sissies.
Facing the Reality of our imperfection and the contrast between it and the perfection of God takes courage. Facing the garish and lumpy offering of a beaming four year old with a straight face takes an equal amount and kind of courage, the courage to love. Make your own family tree in your own domestic church a reflection of that courage and love - as untidy and imperfect, as real, genuine and loving as our families and ourselves. For some craft suggestions to make Christmas tree decorations for your own family, visit our Fridge Art Page . Order online starting November 1st.