Family Traditions

The Advent devotional began with the genealogy of Christ. It seemed like a never-ending list of ancestors.  During the first week of Advent we learn that “There’s room for every story.”  This includes our story.  Our story has a place, whether it is just beginning or near the end.  We are reminded that “God meets us in our fear.”  The angels who greet Mary and Joseph tell them, “Do not fear.”  This seems to be an unrealistic request.  Of course, they were afraid.  And we are reminded to choose a better way as Joseph did, with the help of Divine intervention, when he did not dismiss Mary and kept his commitment to her.  The choices Jesus’ ancestors made, impacted his life.  Especially, Mary and Joseph saying yes to God. 

As I have read through the Advent Devotional, I got to thinking about my family history.  It also got me thinking about traditions that I share, or have shared, with my children.   

My family comes from Sweden and Germany, and perhaps a few other places I am not aware of at this time.  I am proud of my Swedish and German heritage.  When we decorate the tree, we place a pickle ornament on the tree.  This is a German tradition.  The one who finds the pickle first gets a little something extra from St. Nick.  I loved sharing the Saint Lucia tradition with my boys when they were little.  This is a Swedish tradition; Lucia is the bearer of light in the dark Sweden winters.  This tradition was one I cherished growing up.  The fellowship hall at Zion would be decorated beautifully with traditional Swedish decoration.  We listened to many folks’ sing and play music.  I tried singing in Swedish a few times, it is not easy to sing in Swedish.  My boys even dressed like a Tomte and handed out candy during the festival.  I included (with permission) a picture of my boys each dressed like a Tomte, this was probably eleven or twelve years ago.  

Many families have traditions, some last for many years and others may change or stop.  Some new traditions may come to life.  It can be hard to say goodbye to traditions.  As my family grows older and things begin to change, I look forward to starting new traditions with them.  I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. 

Peace, 

Pastor Katrina Steingraeber