One tradition is our home that I did for my daughter as she was growing up was to give her an advent gift. It would be totally unexpected in the sense that she never knew what it would be. One year I bought her studded snow tires, the next year, a motorcycle jacket, etc. It was my way of getting her to understand that the gift of jesus was so unusal and incredible that his birth is the celebration. She is 23 and the tradition lives on. After the advent gift we would have family discussions of what it means to have christ in our lives. what suggestions do you have for personal or family reflection of the gift of christ during this advent season?

-- Anonymous, November 29, 2000

Answers

My personal reflection/memory are the christmas' my mother made us feel extra special. She always went out of her way to make sure we had fruit, nuts, and candy in the house. This was a tradition that she grew up with in Georgia. She always made sure that we had toys and a large christmas meal. This was a representation of God giving His very best in Jesus. The sacrafices that were made were a constant reminder of just how good God is.

-- Anonymous, November 30, 2000

Pastor Jerome I love what your mother did by tying in the gifts and special meal with God giving us his best. What a great way to keep a balance for observing the holiday. By the way may I use your story for a sermon illustration? I have got to preach "God gave us his best!" Joy and thansgiving.

-- Anonymous, November 30, 2000

Of course you may and I shall pray for God to continue to bless you as he has promised as you do the work he has called you to do. Bless you for your insight and motherly guidence. You are truly a blessing.

-- Anonymous, December 01, 2000