by Pastor Linda Skinner
Last night Rich and I went shopping for toys. We were going to a Christmas Party where the Marines were going to be collecting “Toys for Tots” and we wanted a couple of fun toys to donate to the cause. Now, we haven’t done much “toy shopping” lately all the children in our family have outgrown the toy stage. Their children all live far way and have asked not to be sent any more toys. So, we had no idea of what was on the market lately. I was amazed to see an entire section of interesting “Advent Toys.”
Now, my recollection is of paper Advent calendars with little doors on them that you open to find a little picture reminding you of what Christmas was really all about. Those evolved to more secular Christmas pictures and then to a chest with little draws that might contain a little toy. Much to my amazement, I discovered a whole new complexion to the meaning of Advent. To demonstrate here’s a partial list of some interesting Advent possibilities you can purchase in 2019:
• LEGO – Friends Advent Calendar (Toy solider, Snowmen, Mice, Boom Box, etc.)
• Funko Pocket POP Advent Calendar Harry Potter (Complete with all wizarding characters.)
• Hatchimals CollEGGtibles Advent Calendar – Little animals in Christmas colored Eggs (Complete with Christmas baby chick, cat, bird.)
• Star Wars Micro Force Advent Calendar – Complete with Mini Action Figures by Hasbro (I have to admit R2D2 in a Santa hat is pretty cute.)
These little “Advent” toys, reminded us how easy it is to get caught up in the fun part of Christmas and forget “The Reason for the Season.” I have nothing against the fun, crazy part. I got a big chuckle looking at these crazy Advent calendars. (And, no, we didn’t purchase any of these as our donation.) I think God gets a chuckle too. But I also think this a great reminder to all of us to remember every morning of Advent (and our entire year) that we celebrate a God who is with us “Here and Now!”
This weekend Dr. Marty Folsom will be sharing a great message “Christmas Is God Here and Now!” On this Second Sunday of Advent come join us and celebrate the real meaning of Advent. Eliot, band and choir will be leading us in a Christmas Carol sing. (Eliot asks us to wear our ugliest Christmas sweater, if we dare.) We’d love to have you join us on Saturday night at 5:30 pm or Sunday morning at 10:30 am.
Christmas Blessings to All,
Pastor Linda
PS – Pastor Tim sends his best wishes to all. He had a little repair work done on Wednesday for some internal stitches that came undone, but he is really looking forward to seeing you all at our Christmas Lights the Night Services.