Power of Childhood Rituals

Before we get too far away from Christmas, I wanted to throw out something that hit me this December. 
If you are like me - and my husband...and most of the parents we know - you have this innate compulsion to recreate your own childhood...especially at the holidays. I know it is fun and cool and hip to create new traditions for your own kids - BUT - I think most of us will admit we do at least a handful of holiday-related things each December that are tied directly to our own childhood experiences. We orchestrate these annual rituals to the delight - or dread - of our family members.....BECAUSE!
If it is so important to sleep by the Christmas tree in our house on December 16th (Smith side tradition) or if we PERSONALLY have to drive around looking at neighborhood lights or leave food out for a red-suited home invader or read the Christmas story right out of the bible, shouldn't we stop and think and be oh-so-picky and oh-so-intentional in what we prioritize year after year? Afterall, this will OBVIOUSLY be affecting our grandchildren and great-grandchildren....and....well....
I have decided, from this year forward, to be PICKY and INTENTIONAL...and insist on only the BEST traditions for my kids and my "descendents" when it comes to the holy-day legacy I will leave them. Whatever we do at this blessed time of year, it really should be tied into the REAL meaning of Christmas.
The desire of my heart is to pass on a love for Christ....above ALL ELSE! And in spite of the message this world may send.