Sunday, November 27, 2011

Light 'Em Up

I am not sure how I haven't come across this blog before...but in a few minutes of poking around last night I realized I really like the tone and the ideas. Specifically, this idea for ways for families with children to celebrate Christmas in a way that blesses our communities. Don't we all want to raise children who are compassionate and trained to look for ways to bless others? I love the idea of being salt & light as a way to celebrate Advent...and the ultimate Light of the World's birthday.

"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.

"Here's another way to put it: You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:13-16 The Message

The post includes several free printables to make this VERY doable, even with short notice. I am planning to begin later this week with my children, by putting the action items in the pockets of our Advent calendar...I love the thought of waking up each morning anticipating what we get to do to serve others that day!

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

I really appreciate that this is not intended to be guilt producing or stressful--but rather an opportunity to refocus our children (and ourselves) on giving that they can take part in. What better new Christmas tradition to establish than one that adds real meaning to the holiday?

And if this is not your thing, make sure to check out the links to other great Christmas celebration ideas at the end (including Ann VosKamp's Jesse Tree devotion).

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!!

7 comments:

Bill and Jenn said...

I *love* this!
Thanks for posting the link!
Can't wait to start Lighting 'Em Up!

Amanda D said...

That is a very cool idea. Can't do it all but I can do parts of it. Fun stuff! Thanks for reposting!

<3 Aunt Boo!

Courtney DeFeo at Lil Light O' Mine said...

This is so surreal. I've read your blog for real - are you really typing about mine? :) You have such a gift for writing and sharing God's love with others. Thanks for passing along Light Em Up. Take care, Courtney of Lil Light O' Mine

Lindsey said...

I've known the founder of Lil Light O' MIne for years. Like you...she's the real deal. So glad you found her!

Christy Murphy said...

Thanks for passing this along. So excited to involve my kids in some fun random acts of kindness. What a great way to teach our children to think of others.

Unknown said...

This is just the idea that I have been looking for! My husband and I "re-did" our Advent calendar last night with so many of these great ideas and with a much deeper emphasis on giving and loving your neighbors. I can' t wait for Thursday morning when my kids open the first one! They (ages 6 and 4) are just the perfect ages to start this new tradition during Advent. Thanks for the push in the right direction!

The McBrayer family said...

ok- love when worlds collide. Lots of Scotts (friend from my high school years) and Lil Light O Mine-(best friend from college and now) meet in the blog world- LOVE!