Recently,I found myself engaged in a conversation all about family Christmas traditions. My friend asked the group what traditions they have which bring the true meaning of Christmas to life.

I told her that each year on Christmas Eve our family has a tradition to give Jesus presents. We all decide what we can do, or correct in our lives. Thinking like this gives us the chance to deliberately choose to accept the atonement and the “living waters” of Jesus Christ.

After I shared this Peck family tradition, another friend commented. She said that her family has the same tradition, but instead of just talking about their gift or writing it down, they put the papers in a stocking. Apparently, they have a large white stocking which they use to hold the letters to Jesus.

This friend told me that every year she takes a quiet minute to look through the old papers and remembers how her family has changed and grown. I thought this was a beautiful image, and a great idea! I am going to get a stocking, or a wrapped box that is always out at Christmas time reminding us that the only thing we can give to Christ is a broken heart and a contrite spirit.

Brother Oaks says the only thing we can give Christ is our will to do good. I completely agree with this and love this family tradition to teach this lesson to my children.

Merry Christmas! May all your traditions bring the spirit of love into your homes too.

Another post about other Christmas traditions is here http://teachingselfgovernment.com/christmas-traditions-your-family-will-love-624 

Nicholeen’s parenting blog is http://teachingselfgovernment.com