{Advent} Keeping Christ in Christmas

You know, earlier this week, I read an article about how 9 in 10 Americans celebrate Christmas by giving gifts and celebrating with family.  I was thrilled.  Then I read the second paragraph.  Not even 3 in 10 Americans even reads the story of the Nativity nor do they attend a religious service.

Now, I’m not foolish enough to think that all those who read my blog, follow me on Twitter or are my friend on Facebook fall into the 3 in 10 category.  I’m down with that.  This post is not meant to be judgmental or condescending.  If it were, I’d tell you straight up.

I’m just curious how one celebrates Christmas without attending church, without fully knowing what took place 2,000 years ago and why I believe it’s worth our time to prepare, reflect and celebrate in that miracle.  I’ll admit, I grew up Protestant and we attended church services every Christmas (well, the rest of the year, too).  Most of my friends did, too.  It never occurred to me that some people celebrate the birth of Christ by simply opening gifts and skipping church services.  Or, that some people did attend church, but only out of social obligation.

So, I suppose this post is for the 7 in 10 of you.  How about reading the Nativity this year?  If you don’t have a Bible at home, google it, or click HERE.  Then, consider attending a Christmas Eve church service in your area.  I promise, there are many.

Of all the things we do to celebrate the “season” here at our house, attending Christmas Eve Mass is our most precious.  Here’s hoping it will be yours, too.

God bless.  And Merry Christmas 🙂