Happy Birthday, Jesus

Our goal in the Christmas decorations in our house (aka Chrissy decs in Australia) is to remind us constantly that Christmas is all about Jesus.  Everywhere we turn we hope that the nativity toys, magnets, scene all around us continuously point each of us to Jesus.  It's easy to get lost in "traditions" or in our case, making traditions. Or perhaps get distracted by so many other things happening in December.  Every moment of every day we desire to keep striving to point our own hearts, as well as our children, to Jesus.  December is a great opportunity to do that.

Last night before bed, I was able to put "Baby Jesus" in our manger, which has been empty all month long.  It seems perfectly fitting for the girls to wake in the morning to find Jesus in the manger.  Yes?

We have also been singing "Happy Birthday Jesus".  The words are:

Happy Birthday, Jesus
I'm so glad it's Christmas
All the tinsel and lights
And the presents are nice
But the real gift is You.

Happy Birthday, Jesus
I'm so glad it's Christmas
All the carols and bells
Make the holidays swell
But the real gift is You.

Happy Birthday, Jesus
Jesus, I love you.

The girls picked it up within a day and we've been singing it all month long.  It's been a sweet time to hear them singing that the presents are nice but the real gift is Jesus... except that's not quite what they believe yet. :)  They do believe that the presents are everything, and could they have more?!

It was also a special moment this morning after breakfast, instead of doing our usual family devotion, we read the Christmas story, directly from the Bible (Luke chapter 2).  And then sang "Angels We Have Heard on High" which fit in perfectly, giving the two oldest girls a greater understanding and depth to the songs we sing at Christmastime.

 I forgot to make a birthday cake for Jesus this year.  Me oh my, how did that happen?  Couldn't possibly be because of having four children ages four and under!  Especially that we had the joy of staying home and relaxing all day without having to dash off anywhere.  In fact, I'm not sure all of my children even made it out of their pyjamas today.  Next year, I tell myself, the cake will be more meaningful anyway.  So, stay tuned for Christmas 2013. :)