My favorite thing about the Christmas season has become the expectant waiting that comes with the season of Advent. With each passing year, I realize that it is the preparation that is the true joy in most things, and this is especially true in the waiting on the Lord Jesus.
Some of the traditions we now hold dear are
1). Lighting our Advent Wreath nightly and doing devotions and singing a few songs
2). Having friends over for a neighborhood coffee
3). Serving others who don't have what they need for this season: Eden will be visiting a nursing home, and we will be having a party with some angel tree families.
4). We added this tradition this year: of having an Advent Chain-with Scripture on it to read daily.
The other thing we have become focused upon in this season of waiting has been worship through music. In fact, I will add it to my Advent list as #5.
This has really blessed me this season. One concert we attended "Christmas with the Sparks", reminded us that worship, true worship, requires every aspect of our being-body, mind, and spirit. Music seems to be a conduit for my whole self to worship.
We also attended Joyful Noise's Winter concert at CMU, heard the Urban Impact Choir, and a small gospel acapella group from the northside of Pittsburgh. Besides hearing some amazing and diverse singing groups, all of these concerts were f-r-e-e:)
****Oh the joys of city living---hearing an African-American choir, a mostly Asian signing group, a gigantic mixed race, mixed age choir, and rock and roll acoustic group within a two week span of time. A little taste of heaven, during Advent.
This has really blessed me this season. One concert we attended "Christmas with the Sparks", reminded us that worship, true worship, requires every aspect of our being-body, mind, and spirit. Music seems to be a conduit for my whole self to worship.
We also attended Joyful Noise's Winter concert at CMU, heard the Urban Impact Choir, and a small gospel acapella group from the northside of Pittsburgh. Besides hearing some amazing and diverse singing groups, all of these concerts were f-r-e-e:)
****Oh the joys of city living---hearing an African-American choir, a mostly Asian signing group, a gigantic mixed race, mixed age choir, and rock and roll acoustic group within a two week span of time. A little taste of heaven, during Advent.
Hey Karen...loved catching up on your blog. I always want to comment, but rarely have the time (and you have to sign in first). We got your card and I reminded the kids who you were...made me sad that they barely remember. Means we need to come visit soon. Actually, AJ has some work on the book there at the end of January...trying to figure out it we can swing it.
We too did short verses on a paper chain this year...we're loving doing that. Its about all our 4 and under crowd can handle:) But even the simplicity of the candles and a sweet song...to think of our Savior in these things and wait together...its has been meaningful.
Wish we were joining you in all those fun concerts and things....oh how we miss the burgh! Have you ever been to Behold the Lamb? I really want to catch that some year soon! Have a happy Christmas friends...
Love you much,
Jen
Posted by: Jennie Rader | 12/15/2009 at 05:38 PM