Teaching the Nativity

 

   Every aspect of the holiday season is an opportunity to teach a child, and every family has their own unique ways to share the love of Christ with their children. A favorite teaching tradition in our little home is the setting of the nativity. Week by week the scene unfolds bringing to life the story of a Savior piece by piece. Starting with the family Bible open to Luke 2, the angel comes to Mary to tell of her great calling; next week Joseph will have his dream. On and on we go week by week- each piece of the Nativity is set out- added to the scene- as we come to its place in the story.
   The story marvelously unfolds as we gather together until on Christmas morning each family member chooses a piece of the Nativity to hold. My husband takes the family Bible and reads the story of Christ's birth as one by one we place our piece in the stable...ending with him placing the Babe in the manger. Precious hymns are sung...O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Silent Night, Away in the Manger..until we end with Happy Birthday Jesus.
   Our tradition has been shared year by year with family, friends, and Sunday school classes. Children love the interaction and anticipation of placing each piece in the scene as truth is shared in this moment of togetherness. Today I am grateful for the amazing creativity that brought this precious memory to our family.