This Advent I decided to focus on “thriving.” Thriving is the same as flourishing, which is the same as “living the good life.” All parents want their children to thrive and succeed in life. To shape thriving children I make the case for slow repetitive habits. Smart parents figure this out. Bedtime routines allow children to “sleep in heavenly peace” – and parents as well. Mealtime together each evening is one of the best habits of thriving. Research shows that kids who eat dinner as a family perform better in school. Prayer actually wires your brain toward peace and security according to neuroscience research.
I have been studying thriving and flourishing for the past three years now. I found that discipleship is all about habits and routine. Americans are convinced routine, habits, liturgy and such are boring. Americans crave individual self-expression and authentic real emotional experiences. How many sunset photos do you have on your phone? How many food photos do you have on your phone? Was it not the coolest sunset, the coolest food – moment? We live momentary snapshots (Snapchats) of life believing we are “living in the moment.” Cable television is filled with adventurous and thrilling travel shows, food competitions, daring travel food shows… These shows feed our craving for the next big thing. Yet, lives are shaped by the mundane habits of life – so said Aristotle.
At our church we lean into Advent because it forms Christ in us. Each Sunday evening families gather around an Advent wreath with candles and written prayers, and a little game and discussion. Don’t forget the unusual treats! Families and friends “wait, watch, and listen” for the coming of the birth of Jesus.
Christmas may be the number one opportune holiday to shape children and family tradition. No other holiday offers four weeks of focus or the spiritual emphasis that Advent offers.
The Christian liturgical year follows the life of Jesus within one calendar year. I knew our family had succeeded in getting this shaped in my daughter when a few years ago at Advent she said, “I get it. Now what?” May your kids someday say the same thing.
New and exciting opportunities will always be in the offering. Disneyland awaits your family! But lives are shaped by routine meals, scripture, worship services, written repeated prayers, driving to work, laundry, and teeth brushing. Leverage the routines for shaping your family’s soul.
FYI – this year’s Advent Guide pdf is linked at the top of this entry.
