Goodbye to Christmas (Part I)
What I'm about to share is just that... I'm sharing...
our journey.
I'm not here to argue with or belittle anyone ~ or cause division or hard feelings. I'm simply sharing
I'm not here to argue with or belittle anyone ~ or cause division or hard feelings. I'm simply sharing
the story of our family.
It's yet another opposite-world change we have been making at our home for over the past ten years -- undergoing a huge transformation as we attempt to weed out many of the teachings, customs, & traditions of today's Christian faith that are simply not Biblical; that is, either not in the Bible, or often contrary to God's teachings.
No, Mr. Grinch & Mr. Scrooge did not come to visit; nor was it the result of an eggnog-induced whim. What took place at our house this past week has been a long-time brewing... ten years to be exact! And although I'm more of the visionary/impulsive one in our family & apt for change, as we all know, most families don't operate that way nor does God usually work on the hearts of everyone in the same way at the same pace. However, over the years we have ever-so gradually changed our family's Christmas (& Easter) traditions until finally last week we loaded up the van with our artificial tree and Christmas decor and headed to the thrift store.
I can't say this was super easy; no, no tears were shed, but it was the end of an era for our family. It was saying goodbye to some long-time traditions wrapped up in fond memories and putting the final nail in the coffin (as to speak) -- sealing our decision. And, I must admit, there were a couple of items that weren't cheap... someone is going to get a great deal. :) Yet it was very freeing at the same time.
Now I have to admit, there is a strong draw to the allure & romance of the season for sure. The malls & main streets are just so festive with all the lights & music -- everyone is caught up in the shopping and giving/receiving of gifts. People are smiling and everything is decked out in it's finest.
Next time you will hear a confession and a little about what really spoke to me/us that prompted such a 180° change in our holiday celebrations
It's yet another opposite-world change we have been making at our home for over the past ten years -- undergoing a huge transformation as we attempt to weed out many of the teachings, customs, & traditions of today's Christian faith that are simply not Biblical; that is, either not in the Bible, or often contrary to God's teachings.
No, Mr. Grinch & Mr. Scrooge did not come to visit; nor was it the result of an eggnog-induced whim. What took place at our house this past week has been a long-time brewing... ten years to be exact! And although I'm more of the visionary/impulsive one in our family & apt for change, as we all know, most families don't operate that way nor does God usually work on the hearts of everyone in the same way at the same pace. However, over the years we have ever-so gradually changed our family's Christmas (& Easter) traditions until finally last week we loaded up the van with our artificial tree and Christmas decor and headed to the thrift store.
I can't say this was super easy; no, no tears were shed, but it was the end of an era for our family. It was saying goodbye to some long-time traditions wrapped up in fond memories and putting the final nail in the coffin (as to speak) -- sealing our decision. And, I must admit, there were a couple of items that weren't cheap... someone is going to get a great deal. :) Yet it was very freeing at the same time.
Now I have to admit, there is a strong draw to the allure & romance of the season for sure. The malls & main streets are just so festive with all the lights & music -- everyone is caught up in the shopping and giving/receiving of gifts. People are smiling and everything is decked out in it's finest.
But, as hard as this is to say (and believe me, I really don't wish to sound this harsh), isn't that just like satan to pull out all the stops to entice even the best of us? (Speaking to myself here as I, more than anyone, can get so caught up in the romance, the decor, and the festivities of the season.) Yet, as our family began to really learn the pagan meaning behind everything Christmas, the allure began to fade. By the time Christmas rolled around last year, even with the very little bit of decorations we still had left from years of purging, the whole idea of putting up a tree became more of a dreaded chore for the girls -- our hearts just weren't in it.
Next time you will hear a confession and a little about what really spoke to me/us that prompted such a 180° change in our holiday celebrations
I remember when we made that choice too...now, some 30 years later...our family still doesn't get it :) praying for your delightful journey.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bobbie for your kind words and encouragement. I always love what you have to share. ♥
DeleteI look forward to hearing more of your journey. I am glad that we are free to celebrate or not.
ReplyDeleteThanks Jenn. I'm glad you have been a faithful friend through all these years. I'll be interested in hearing your comments on my next post (posted before I saw your reply). Yes, I am glad we aren't puppets. I have no problem with worshiping God on any day, it's just the adoption of pagan customs to do so that I disagree with.
DeleteWe know how difficult this choice can be, as we made it 4-5 years ago.
ReplyDeleteMay Father bless you and your family as you continue to seek Him with your whole heart and worship Him in Spirit and in Truth! Blessings! {{hugs}}
- Christina
Thanks Christina. I saw your post and had to smile since I was working on my post at the same time. I remember when you guys made the switch and I remember before - you have always been a wonderful encourager in the faith. Wishing you a Happy Hanukkah!
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