Christmas Card Traditions
November 5, 2011
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14)
As a young bride, 31 years ago, I was very pleased to have an early December wedding, not just because I favor the holiday colors and wanted poinsettias all about, but because I couldn’t wait for my first, official holiday duty as a wife….sending the family Christmas cards! It may seem silly in these modern times of Facebook and Twitter, but selecting, inscribing, and sending a beautiful card from Mr. and Mrs. Gary R.Bone , affirming the blessings of the Christmas season felt very important and very right.
For 31 holiday seasons, I have searched out and sent an ornate, artful, religiously themed Christmas card. As often as I can, I use the scripture from Isaiah 7:14….because I love the idea of a “sign”….a spiritual message from God. I also like Christmas cards with the name “Immanuel”….meaning “God with us”. We need Him with us, always, and especially during these dark times.
So, in 2011, once again, I will sit down and write out Christmas cards. Some think it is a waste of time. Some say that Facebook and websites make the tradition redundant. Some say that the stamps cost too much and that the money should go to charity. They can say all they want. I think people still need a sign. I want to be part of an enduring, rich tradition of sharing a personal Christmas message, one that gives the receiver a moment to pause, open the envelope, and read the message….”The Lord himself will give you a sign…” Possibly, in that home, the Christmas card from the Bone Family may be the only evidence of Christ in the season….and then my time, energy, and stamps will be worth it.
