We, as women, are in a very unique position in building culture. As keepers of the home, we have the glorious task of shaping and making the people in our care. This takes on special meaning and weight during the Advent and Christmas seasons.
The Advent and Christmas seasons are a time of great anticipation - a time of looking forward to and then celebrating our coming King. We are in the distinct position of putting hands and feet on this. If we are intentional, we can train our people in joy. We can spread joy around like glitter with special activities, treats, and foods. We can give our people a small taste of eternity in the here and now.
We don't do this to gain glory for ourselves - to have beautiful crafts, delicious treats, and charming photos to share on social media. We don't do this as an end to itself, like our annual material overindulgence. We do this because our God is love and His coming is joyous. This is the training ground where we learn to look in anticipation to the coming of the Lord and learn to celebrate His coming.
If we are not careful, we can see these activities, foods, and the like as small and insignificant - not that important. Nothing could be further from the truth! Luke 13:20-21 says that the kingdom of God is like leaven - such a small thing. As anyone who has made bread knows, it takes a tiny bit of yeast to grow great loaves of bread. It is precisely these "little things" that take hold in our souls & the souls of our children that grow and spread, expand God's kingdom and establish culture. We sow these things in faith knowing God will grow our small offerings into big things in our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, our church community, and His kingdom at large.
This won't look the same for every family. Build your culture in your home. Start where you are, being careful not to compare your beginning with someone else's middle. You can certainly use others' ideas as a jumping off point. But, if your family doesn't like gingerbread, don't force it. If they aren't into crafts, find something that brings joy to the family God has given you. If there's a treat you love and they don't, give it up joyfully. Hold all things loosely. There should be an attitude of "get to" not "have to." We are building anticipation and celebration, not dread. If you aren't sure where to start, ask your husband, your family, or other ladies in the community.
So ladies, this Advent and Christmas season, fill your homes with wonderful scents and tastes. Swell its walls with love and laughter. Spread joy. Grow God's kingdom, looking forward in faith to the growing kingdom God promises to bring about with our tiny offerings of cookies, games, glitter, and colorful packages.
