Mecklenburg Community Church

There is a great chance that you have had a minor Christmas explosion in your house. From unpacking decorations, to putting up a tree and maybe even wrapping presents already - there is sure to be a bit of a beautiful Christmas mess!

This week, we want to continue looking at some ways we can direct our kids toward Jesus with things we have already done in our homes. Here are a few more Christian symbols you will typically see this Christmas season, and how you can explain their connection to Jesus to your kids:

Candy canes

Did you know that candy canes are full of symbolism? Their red and white stripes symbolize Christ’s blood shed on Good Friday, and the white reminds us of God's forgiveness that makes us pure and free of sin. The unique ‘J’ shape of a candy cane stands for ‘Jesus’.

Nativity scenes

Nativity scenes are an obvious symbol of the first Christmas, but sometimes we miss significant parts of the nativity. Within the manger we get a glimpse of the truly humble beginnings of our Savior, and we can point out to our kids that God chose this beginning for Himself, and ask them what that tells us about what God is like? You can always grab a toy-like nativity like this one, and let your kids play and interact with it. You might even read the verses in the Bible’s book of Luke 2:2-20 and let them act it out with the figures.

Advent

You may have a few advent calendars around, but did you know that the church's intent for Advent is to build our anticipation of Christ’s birth? You can do this in lots of ways. Advent wreaths, blocks, or devotions do this in different ways as they walk through the Christmas story. Advent began on December 1 this year, but it’s definitely not too late to start! Any amount of time you devote to pointing your family towards Christ this season is time well spent. You can also check out MecKidz for free advent devotions for your family!

So much of leading our kids towards choosing a life with Jesus happens in the everyday parts of our lives together.

Don’t feel like these conversations need to be perfect or set apart in some way. It can be as easy as saying ‘Hey! Do you know what I learned about that candy cane?” next time your kids are eating the sweet treat; or starting a tradition of advent devotions as many times as you're able this year.

God doesn’t ask for our perfection ever, just a willingness to give Him our hearts and attention as we seek to do life alongside Him. And what better time to focus on doing just that, than now?