One of our favorite Christmas traditions is the Jesus Birthday Party we host for family friends. Even so, we talked about taking this year off. But I just didn’t want to – and I’m glad we didn’t!
So we crammed it in the calendar on a recent Sunday afternoon and invited many families from school, church, and our small-town lives. Many of those people had scheduling conflicts because, well, December.
I planned some ornament crafts, asked my oldest to read from Luke 2, ordered some delicious cupcakes, and organized collections for the local food pantry and pregnancy crisis center. My husband and two oldest kids wanted to play musical chairs, so that was on the agenda too.
Each year we do slightly different things and have different people who are able to attend. And each year something different strikes me as meaningful.
During the party, I reflected on sharing everyday moments with families and how that’s among the things my kids will remember about childhood. Friendships change with seasons & schedules, but those relationships help shape us. Even though this year’s party was simpler and smaller than other years’ events, I am especially grateful to have gathered with families who have known us for many years.
As far as the party goes, I really loved reading our kids’ responses on this birthday card to Jesus, hearing my fourth-grader read from Luke 2 to her peers, seeing friends who have literally grown up together connect in simple ways, and collecting items that help our neighbors.
The tradition was one started for the kids to understand why we celebrate Christmas, but this year I think it may have happened so I could remember where God has me and what he’s called me to do.
Greg and I are starting a new small group in the new year, and the birthday party for Jesus offered affirmation that I believe we are supposed to serve this community we call home. Our new small group is going to focus on being the light of the world here where we live and provide opportunities for hands-on service projects. I’m excited to see what God does through this desire we have.
We thought we were bringing canned goods, diapers, and wipes for others in Jesus’ name to celebrate his birthday, but I left with the gifts that come with living generously in community.
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That is a lovely Christmas tradition and I love your plans for the New Year too as you think about reaching out into your community. I have been part of a group doing that this year. We had a Christmas family celebration in Sunday and it was amazing to see how many connections have been built in the community over the last year. Hope you have a lovely Christmas!
Those connections are really exciting to think about! Thanks for sharing that and being here, Lesley! Merry Christmas to you!
I love that you wrote a post talking about celebrating the birth of Jesus! What a fun thing your family does together, including the service to others in the community. Love it! Merry Christmas Kristin! xoxo
Thanks, Nicki! Merry Christmas to you!
Wow, I love the way you celebrate Jesus’ birthday! I had planned a birthday party for Sunday School opening this past week — and then it snowed and church was cancelled. However! When we gathered on Sunday night for p.m. service (thank you, Lord, for snow plows!), I brought the cupcakes (there was no way that I was going to keep them in my house!) and we celebrated after the service with hot cocoa, too!
Sounds like a fun celebrations – who doesn’t love cupcakes?! 🙂 I hope you and your family have a merry Christmas! I think it’s going to be 65* here after a cold week.
Kristin, excited about your new small group! I hope you keep us abreast of all the goings-on!!!
When Hannah & Simon were younger (these are my grands) we would always have a happy birthday cake for Jesus on Christmas Eve. We haven’t done that in a while I believe I’ll resurrect that tradition this weekend! xo
Sending you Christmas hope, from the heart, to your home.
Much love, Sus’.
Thanks, Susan! I’m excited to see what God does with our group too. Merry Christmas to you, sweet friend. xoxo
I love how God has continually confirmed for you that He has you right where you need to be. You are serving well and beautifully, sweet friend. Merry Christmas to you and your blessings.
I’m grateful God keeps showing up and confirming what He’s told me to be true. And I’m glad for your friendship through the screen, friend. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas. xoxo
What a special tradition! It’s amazing how we have something planned and think it will be one thing and God turns around and does so much more. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas! I feel so blessed to have found you and this wonderful community!
Thanks, Katie! I really appreciate your kindness – in this comment and others. I’m glad we’re connected too. Merry Christmas!