It was just an ordinary night when the angel appeared to the shepherds, proclaiming our Saviour’s birth (Luke 2:10-12). As homeschool parents, we have many ordinary days, but on this Christmas Day, the day we celebrate our Saviour’s birth, let us not make this any ordinary day.

I would like to share with you how one change in our Christmas tradition has had a positive impact on our family. A few years ago, not wanting another Christmas to pass by without my children REALLY taking the time to stop and think about why we celebrate Christmas Day, I told them we were going to watch The Nativity Story together as a family. To be completely honest, I was tired of hearing the typical response of, “Because it’s Jesus’ birthday,” as to why we celebrate Christmas. I wanted them to give me a deeper, more heartfelt answer. This one change in our annual Christmas tradition has helped make our Christmas days more pleasant and meaningful. The true meaning and message of the movie really sets our hearts and minds right for the new year that is to come.

On this Christmas Day, I encourage you as a family to look beyond the commercial gifts and the fancy food, and find a tradition that will work for your family to see the most meaning gift that was given to all who accept it: the gift of eternal life through our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas!

Katie