We are in the season of Advent now, a time of waiting expectantly, of slowing down, looking within, and concentrating on what really matters. Sadly, this is a practice that our culture discourages, choosing instead to put the emphasis on acquiring more, doing more, and adding one, or a dozen, new traditions to an already crowded schedule. We know what we need to do, and most of us really want to do that, but it’s hard to swim upstream, and we need reminders to help us prioritize how to celebrate the season.
One church I know of has a very meaningful Advent practice. Families can choose to sign up as hosts for Mary and Joseph. Doll sized replicas of Jesus’ parents are given to a home on the list, where they reside in a place that has been specially prepared for them. They stay only overnight, because they must hurry on their journey to Bethlehem. The next day the couple is welcomed to another home, and so on, until they arrive in the church on Christmas Eve. A recording of music and meditations accompanies them so that the family is encouraged to spend some time contemplating what it is that we are really anticipating.
Some people observe Advent by placing Mary and Joseph in a distant part of the house and daily moving them closer to the manger scene under the tree. The Holy Child is not put in place until the parents arrive on Christmas Eve.
These are both beautiful traditions, and I’m in favor of whatever makes us take a time out to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Those of us who seek a meaningful holiday season might explore other creative practices.
Make someone welcome. Perhaps the person who knocks on your door asking for a donation. You don’t have to comply, but you might thank them for their efforts to help others, and wish them joy. A treat in the mailbox for the weary traveler who makes his or her rounds in all kinds of weather. Cups of hot chocolate for the carolers who have stood out in the cold for an hour. Take some time to get to know the new person at church, or neighborhood gathering. Invite someone who is outside your normal circle of socializing to come by for a cup of comfort and some leisurely conversation. Really notice the demeanor of people whom you often meet. Do they look depressed, or tired? Tell the checkout person that you hope he can go on break soon, and that you appreciate how difficult his job must be. Kidnap your best friend for an hour and take her out for a treat. You know how hard she tries to make it a perfect holiday, and that she never takes a minute for herself.
We are all weary travelers from time to time. Make some room in your home and your own busyness. Offer what you can. The innkeeper did.