A few years ago I remember reading an article challenging dads to exercise some creativity in leading their homes at Christmas time. Since then, we've attempted a couple which happen to fit in the busy schedule of our lives. Some examples include: a specific time away with my wife Julie on or near the anniversary of my dad's death in December; my personal love for our church's annual Christmas Variety night; a Friday night driving around looking at Christmas lights and a stop for ice cream; and...a Christmas album.
This presents some particular challenges for me. First, I have a hard time fully embracing the cheery side of Christmas. I feel like false holiday cheer can distract from the mega-biblical themes that should draw us to God during this time of year. Second, I am not exactly known for my wide knowledge of music. I can tend to a lot of repetitiveness once I find something I like.
That said, I've still tried. Let me share a few albums we've enjoyed over the past few years:
And new (to us) for this year:
Note: don't miss my personal favorite of the big band/swing version of O Come All Ye Faithful. A ton of fun for sure! You can watch it on YouTube here.
What Christmas traditions do you enjoy? What ones could you start?
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin