@@davidinchcliff4560 The focus and intent of our celebration is what matters. Historically, we understand the influence of the Romans on Christmas, and yes, perhaps, that is how Christmas came about, along with a mix of modern traditions, but we can un-pagonize Christmas by bringing the focus back on Christ, on how he came into this world, and what he went through to save us. When you do that, we can use this very Christmas to honor God. Please also read Romans 14:1-6. Perhaps it can give some clarity in the matter. God bless!! Thanks again Kirkland Family!!
Wasn't Cains sacrifice to honor God also? Please remember to obey is better than sacrifice. When we honor God our way instead of His we are on very thin ice.@@anjelstar86
I never did Santa with my children. Never wanted to lie to them! One year, I had set up a small nativity & was showing it to my grandchildren. After they went home, I noticed that baby Jesus was missing. When I asked my 3 year old granddaughter about it, she said, “ I just wanted to take Jesus home with me for a little while.” She is now 21 & still loves Jesus. That is what His nativity is all about!
I love your story that you shared with us. You all got it right. I am a Christian and that’s exactly how I believe. I do have a Christmas tree up, but that tree has nothing to do with Jesus, nor has it anything to do with Christmas. I just love looking at the lights on it, and that is all. I do wish you and your family a very Merry CHRISTmas.✝️❤️
I cannot tell you the joy Christmas brought in my life during childhood- in a dysfunctional hurting family- poor marriage of my parents. It connected Christ with giving. He gave to us and wants to still give healing and hope. Traditional Christmas was a light in my childhood. A huge light. I am grateful for it.
As a child in England it was a special time for me. Yes the Christmas tree and small gift. The nativity scene at church, Christmas carols, away in I a manger. And all the children walking into Chichester Cathedral with a lighted candle including me. Dad's sock on my bed all lumpy and filled with small items and an orange in the bottom. My best gift waS a new book. Mum's Christmas cake and roast dinner..
Thank you for sharing. I have not celebrated christmas (which is not a word in the Bible) since 1997. I struggled with this very thing in 1996. After reading the Bible, the conviction I got was Jesus wanted us to do one thing in remembrance of Him as His disciples. I celebrate Him every day of my life. You are a wonderful family. May God continue to bless all of you. Stay safe. ❤
I grew up celebrating Christmas and raised my children doing so, but as my hunger to really know and serve Jesus grew, I began to be convicted about doing so. This is year number five for not celebrating. My husband and I love and serve and worship the Lord more deeply than ever. If I could have a do-over, I would not raise my children participating in Christmas activities, but would have a lot more time celebrating Jesus every day of life. It amazes and saddens me how much the world loves Christmas but hates Jesus Christ.
What a lovely comment. I too celebrate Jesus every day of my life, although I do enjoy taking time to remember the miracle of His birth at this time of year.
Thanks for sharing. We - a family in germany - do not celebrate christmas anymore. We celebrate Time together an that God send us his son - but without a tree or presents .... it feels wonderful - there is freedom❤
@@saraschneider6781 Christmas is a commercial festival and a lot of stress. In Germany there are Christmas markets and Advent. On December 6th, parents lie to their children and say that Santa has put something in their boots. The big topic is “Gifts”. We won't take part in that. There is no Christmas in the Bible. When we think of Jesus' birth (whether in February, July or December) it does not mean that we celebrate Christmas. The same goes for when we spend time together as a family. So, NO WE NO LONGER CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS!!! :)
What a wonderful testimony. I struggle every Christmas as I try to be a part of what my family calls Christmas without violating my own convictions and offending them. Its utterly impossible. Its all about the tree the gifts the football game the meal. There might be a candle light service or a meal time prayer. Many in my family would say they are Christian, but then why aren't we all focused on Christ? Christ just seems to be a footnote in the season. I feel like even many churches have adopted and blended so much of the worldly veiw of easter and Christmas and even embracing halloween. I used to say much only to no avail and achieved no more glory for God in that either. Its such a difficult time for me. I love the way you addressed your convictions. Praise God for your faithfulness to train up your children with a biblical world view with such love and mercy and grace.
Of course it is impossible what does the table of Christ have to do with the table of demons Drive around you will find gaudy Santa and other types of decorations everywhere loud Christmas music lights everywhere haughty and a picture of wealth and pride very few decorations that are about Jesus
Thank you for sharing this! We recently boxed up 2 huge Christmas trees and over 40 years accumulation of ornaments and decor; donated it all to Salvation Army! I've done a lot of soul searching recently and believe everything you have mentioned about the culture and how the birth of Jesus is no longer what most people focus on. So we've done away with all the "trappings" and focus on Jesus every day. He is to be celebrated always!
About works: We are not saved BY our works, yet James explains " faith without works is dead. " forgiven to DO good works 😊, to LOVE , reach others & shine His blessed light & Truth. There are good works to be done ,part of His witness in & thru us. It is the good fruit of our being Born Again & by the H.Spirit that indwells us. Part of our Testimony you could say . Great will be our spiritual reward even 1 day a variety of crowns will be given to lay at Jesus feet. :) It is v.wise to seek Father God what He will have you do in all thgs. His will be done. Personally gave most of it all up some 35yrs ago ,even the holiday so called name Christ MASS. Commercialism is alot of pressure.We found alot of freedom & even celebrated Hannakah -8 days a v. spec.time set aside daily. You can learn so much thru wise resources , going deeper, thru mature elder Bro.s , & by digging in via prayer, be honest with yourself & Father God ,be led by H.Spirit studying as a Berean,what is Gods heart in this? & the origins of each ie.manger, sending of cards, tree, the 1st Pilgrims or Puritans would never allow it or a Nativity scene at all in the Colonies. Many " traditions" of European immigrants were brought to the US/ America & embraced . Jesus was even in the beginning with God , I & my Father are One, He is the Word ...many foreshadows of Him in OT.b4 His birth ,death & resurrection,& the New Covenant given❤ Love & prayers as you seek His blessed will & narrow way as a 4th Wise Man.
Thank you for your video. In Belgium and the Netherlands, we celebrate Sinterklaas/Saint Nicolas on the 6th of December and children get presents on this occasion and it's easier to focus to the real meaning of Christmas as there is no Santa, with celebrating Jesus'birth , church, hymns, but also family gathering (we don't have thanksgiving) and what is important to me "Christmas is a time for sharing and giving". During the Advent we think to all people for who Christmas is painfull (sick people in the Hospital, elderly in nursing homes, homelesses, etc...) and we try to help them, giving groceries to the food bank, preparing boxes with some presents which will be given to homelesses for Christmas, singing carols in elderly caring centers, writing cards for them, children giving one of their toys for children in hospital or orphanages, etc... In my family, we have a Christmas tree and a scenery, and adults exchange little presents. I also bake Christmas cookies for my colleagues at work as the end of the year is always busy for the accountancy department and is a little attention which is appreciated by everybody, Christians, muslims and others .
I agree with your way of focusing on the TRUE meaning and the concept of giving regarding the man St. Nicolas and his compassionate walk with the needy. It is a balance as a Christian to listen to the Holy Spirit and not get caught up in all the trappings, overspending for gifts, and the rest, that can leave you empty inside, Especially the day after Christmas. I enjoyed my childhood Christmases when we had very little and were grateful. The excitement of the day coming, the tree decorating with Dad, who was a truck driver and was finally home with us, is a very dear memory. The smells sights and sounds, along with family being together I hold to my heart. After I got saved, it took on a whole new meaning! Some miracles, too many to tell! One was falling in love for the first time with my spouse, the birth of my daughter, and almost 39 years ago, finding an apartment a week before Christmas, after being in a shelter for homeless families! Jesus is the center of my life 365/24-7 , so I can feel free to celebrate, without the guilt! I did visit your country once! The people were very friendly and helpful to us! Merry Christmas!
Actually, on the 5th for the Netherlands. I see both Sinterklaas and Christmas being celebrated here without it being about people of need. That would be nice. I guess it is not done everywhere, and it also depends on the intentions.
@@manisymone8622 Probably the evening of the 5th, which is the 6th (evening counts as the next day due to Jews seeing the sundown as the start of the day). The 6th is the feast of St. Nicholas.
I think you are giving the right message about Christmas. As always, your gentle spirits help bring understanding to others. The family is looking happy and healthy.
I know you are so busy but I'm wondering if you could just do a quick (maybe 2 minutes) family update once a month so we can see how the children are growing and any life updates? I have been watching for several years and miss hearing from you. I'm 71 and don't do social media, just youtube. We haven't had a TV for almost 14 years and love the peace! Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit and His Word are first in our heart, mind, soul, spirit and body. Love your music, testimony, and the life you live in "Him" with your children. Thank you for all that you do for Him!
Though I live very far from you in Kenya Africa, I find myself totally in agreement with you about Christmas. Our family tradition for Christmas is that we attended the Christmas service and I enjoy singing the Christmas hymns a lot. I believe the word of God and His Holy Spirit should guide all aspects of our lives.
I was happy to see this video. I grew up in a religion that did not celebrate Christmas. When I was in my mid 30's, with young children I started keeping it but I never talked about Santa, gave gifts from him., etc. I'm back ti not keeping it I do give my grandchildren a small gift of money, but no linger do the tree thing. My biggest reason is that NO WHERE in the Bible does it tell us when He was born, but was very specific about His death and resurrection the other reason was because December 25th was ordained by Constantine the Great and I've studied. It seems Jesus was probably born in the Fall Holidays which sit about October. I do like to have a big meal with family, we just don't call-in Christmas, it's just when people have time off work fir a bit!
It is great to hear what your oldest son says, what he believes. It's also nice to hear what you believe! Your oldest son put the meaning of Christmas so well! I know you are proud of him! I feel the same way God bless you all.
You handled the topic with such grace and conveyed the truth in a way that would not hurt the people who do not view it the way you do. That is the mark of true christian maturity. God bless the family!
Gradually you displayed the difference between all that is fake and what is Truth! And all that in a spirit of humility. Very well done and so needed today!
I don’t know if you ever read your comments. I hope that you do. 😊 We very much enjoyed your video on what you do for Christmas. I thought I would share with you what we do. My husband & I love Christmas, as do our children & grandchildren. It’s a very holy & special season for us. I so appreciate that you don’t come down on fellow believers who celebrate Christmas in a different way than you do. As the Scriptures say in Titus, “To the pure all things are pure.” Christ is at the center of our Christmas. Everything we do to celebrate Christ’s birth draws our hearts closer to Him. So many beautiful things to use as object lessons when our children were little & now with our grandchildren! Santa Claus has never been a part of our celebration. We do get a fresh cut tree each year, the same way that I always get an Easter Lily for Easter. We also put lights up outside. The lights remind us that Jesus came into this dark world as the Light of the world, and that we are to let our lights so shine so that others can see Christ in us. Our Christmas tree takes us back to the garden of Eden & the sad fall of man. This was the first place that the promise of a Savior to come was mentioned. It also reminds us of the beautiful Tree of Life in the midst of the garden. The evergreen color of our tree reminds us of the eternal life found only in Christ. The Christmas tree also reminds us that it was on a cruel tree that our Savior shed His precious blood & died to pay for our sins. Sometimes we have decorated our tree with Bible verses & different ornaments of fruit to remind us of the fruit of the Spirit. And then there is the lovely fragrance of the tree. I love the smell of a Norway Spruce! 🥰 It reminds me of the precious spikenard that Mary (the sister of Lazarus) poured forth on our Lord before His death. To this day, whenever I smell a fresh cut Christmas tree I automatically think of Jesus. We always had our children hang candy canes on our tree on Christmas Eve. This was to remind them of the shepherds keeping watch over their flocks by night when they were visited by the angels from on high, & told of the birth of the Savior. The candy canes look like the shepherd’s crooks, & remind us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. The red and white stripes of the candy canes reminds us of the purity of Christ & His precious blood shed for our sins. I also always set up a village under our tree. I make sure the village is covered in snow. It looks so pretty. It reminds us of how Christ’s blood washes away all of our sins, & makes us whiter than snow. So you see, everything about Christmas reminds us of Jesus. ❤️ That is why we love it so much. We exchange gifts on Christmas morning to remind us of the wonderful gift that God gave to us in His beloved Sob. It also reminds us of the gifts of the wise men who came when Jesus was a young boy. I just thought I would share with you how we celebrate Christmas, and why we love it so much. We wish you a very blessed and merry Christmas! 🕊 God bless. ❤️
So very well said. Thank you for your gentle explanation of how your family celebrates Christmas. It breaks my heart how in the last five years the bickering among Christians around this time we choose to recognize His birth has become so prevalent and it continues to get worse. To us, not one day but the whole season is so special. We don't know when He was born but for me I need the reminder of His humble beginnings, the miracles that happened, how the whole world was changed. Thank you!
I've celebrated Christmas only a few times in my life.. as I grew up Jehovah's Witness we didn't celebrate it. The whole holiday was demonised by my mother so it's been a long unravelling for me how I view and choose to spend my time during this holiday. My youngest daughter is 3 and we haven't celebrated Christmas until this year I decided to do something. I live alone, and we are quite isolated from others so it feels right to have some decorations, and buy a few gifts to bring some comfort in our waiting while my husband is overseas. I made some framed art about the birth of Christ and have been teaching my daughter about the birth of Christ and like Forest have been enjoying singing Christmas hymns too! God bless you all and thanks for sharing your thoughts in Christmas, it definitely is an encouragement
Hi friends… How are you? It’s a l long time we’re not hearing from you here on your blog channel … Looking forward hearing from you. We are missing you 🥰
I liked Forrests thoughts about Christmas. No Santa or Christmas trees for my family either. My son, who's in his 20's, recently thanked me for not lying to him about Santa when he was a young child. I always reminded him that Christmas is about the birth of Christ.
I have no problem with having a Christmas tree. It is just a decoration like any other plant and flowers in my house. I see it as no difference as flowers and plants in a funeral service or brought to a loved one’s grave. Nature was created by our Lord and I see no reason why we would not be allowed to enjoy it. Great video guys!
Are you born again? Have you read the Bible? Jeremiah 10:2-5 Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. [3] For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. [4] They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. [5] They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good.
@@noneedtoknowmyname2855 Yep. I am born again and have been for many many, many, years. And yes to the second question. I have and still do study the Holy Bible. I am very familiar with the scripture that you quote here. This scripture is speaking of idols and the worshipping of them. This isn’t even talking about a tree. It is an idol carved from a tree. I know of NO Christian (including myself) that worships their Christmas tree. However, for those that feel conviction of having a Christmas tree, then don’t have one. I have zero conviction of a Christmas tree. Nor do I have a problem with those that do. But I do have a problem of those that push their convictions on others. Our Bible tells us not to do that. To respect other Christians convictions.
I just love your kids but Forrest has captured my heart. That child has become such a young man filled with love of the Lord! Such wisdom and maturity for such a young man. Your family brings joy and peace.
I so appreciated your video today. I love the lights around town and the music. I don't decorate much now that I live alone. My very favorite part of Chistmas was hearing my grandpa read Luke 2 on Christmas eve when our larger family would gather. He's past on these many years and I've moved far from my family. I now enjoy this time to reflect on the miracle of God coming to Earth - the beginning of His plan for us. I wish you many blessings in this season.
God bless your family. Ten or more years ago I was guided to dig deeper into things. I’m 64 years old and I wish I would’ve learned when I was very young about everything. I stopped celebrating almost all of the holidays. My whole adult family still does but I will not force my beliefs on them. I didn’t grow up in a church but always knew about God. Until I’m guided to by the Holy Spirit, I will keep my mouth shut. God is good all the time.
‘a’ church signifies there are more ‘the’ is definite article - signifying but one When a person is born again- spiritually - according to the word of God - penned down for our learning and edification - we are the Church The Church is NOT a building one goes to - Holy Spirit comes TO us just as Jesus WENT to the people We are the Church- Tabernacle- Temple and Tent of Meeting - He comes to live withIN us Holy Spirit is the Teacher Jesus Christ being the Head of and the Church- of every nation tribe and tongue His - the Great Speckled Bird of His Word It IS written 💖👑
Man the way you people were so careful in bringing up those points, trying not to hurt anybody by blunt harsh realities but still opening up the truth so beautifully is such a thoughtful thing for you to do. People need to have an opportunity to learn all of these and you are doing good justice to it by this video. I love what you guys do.
Love your perspective! As a Christian Great Grandma, I have gone through all the thoughts of this season. Christmas when I was a child leaves me with so many wonderful memories of family, songs of the blessed day he was born, church, and yes also Santa, trees etc. I want to honor the Lord, and came to the realization that He wants us to have fun, especially on His birthday. I feel He is right here with us. I love nature and so the tree for me is something He created to bless us. Merry Christmas! May you enjoy and celebrate every good thing with Joy!
THANK YOU! I have been sitting here for 20 minutes trying to write the same thing. It's the one time of the year where I can GIVE and no one fusses. 😊😊
Yep, it’s the only time of the year that I can belt out in front of everybody. Not just Church people fall on your knees. Oh, he the angel voices, and nobody thinks I am preaching to them.
Thank you for reminding me that Celebrating Christ's incarnation is so important. I am grateful for this reminder because of the struggles I am dealing with. May I keep my eyes on His incarnation and enjoy Him this season no matter what my circumstances are right now. Thank you. Blessings as you celebrate Him this Christmas!
I have never had to lie to my kids about Santa Clause. Instead I prayed for wisdom. I wanted my kids to know the truth, but also not deprive them of any joy that was from God. So when my little girl asked, "Mama, is Santa Real? " I told her that there was a man named Saint Nicholas who went around giving presents to children. Some people think he is stll alive. What do you think? " and I let her decide for herself. The spirit of Christmas lives on through many generous people. Respect all of your beliefs. God bless, and Jesus is the reason for the season.
I love this!! Coming from a family that celebrated Christmas in the traditional way and believing in Santa as a child, l was very disappointed to find out that Santa was a lie, and my husband and I decided we wouldn't have 'Santa' at our house with our children.. Over the last five years the Lord has been bringing my husband and I out of so many of the world's ways of celebrating Christmas, and opening our eyes to so many of the things that you are saying here. We too have 'simplified' this time of year to a meal with family, fellowshipping and enjoying each other. This was not even done on 'Christmas', but the week before, as we all can recognize that Christ was not born this time of year. My parents wanted to draw names, and there was a very simple gift exchange where everyone got one gift to celebrate each other and the family Yahweh has given us. Family is a gift, Yeshua is a gift, the Father's love is a gift 💗 l am thankful and blessed; the older we get, the more important family becomes. I love your blogs and so appreciate the truth you share! Your boys are so wise! May Yahweh bless you and your family as you seek and follow Him 💗
-Just for the record, Jesus was NOT born Dec.25 🎉Tammuz's B-Day is Dec.25 You can read about Tammuz in 👉(Ezekiel 8:14) - JESUS was most likely born during "Sukkot" also known as feast of tabernacles, which is around mid October. We can calculate this through the birth of John the Baptist, who was born 6 months before Jesus 😃. God bless everyone 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
Did you know that in Germany we haven't forgotten Saint-Nicolas? He "comes" to the kids on December 6, it's a special day, and you can see men dressed like him too, out on the Christmas markets (not just Santa!). I'm glad my parents never told us kids that Santa was real, but the bishop St-Nicolas sure is! By the way, we also celebrate the advent time, which are the weeks in December before Christmas. Advent means arival of the Lord. My family came together every Sunday to have a cozy time, with some nice foods like nuts, cookies, oranges and Christstollen, and lots of candles. A time I will never forget.
But that’s not what Saint Nicholas was. There may be more than one but the one I particular did give toys and also has passed away. He also was more of an introvert. But he didn’t dress the way he has been depicted and he wouldn’t want children lied to either. That’s just the thing. He was a godly man who wouldn’t lie to children.
I am also from Germany, celebrating Christmas, St. NIcolas, having nice food, Christstollen, putting up decoration and candles, but never lying about a Santa Claus, always focusing on the real meaning of Christmas. By the way, since you are from Germany, do you know german speaking christian families like the Kirklands that are on TH-cam? I haven't been able to find german family videos like this and would like to share something like that with my kids.
@@reflectionsinthebible3579I don't know exactly what you mean, but the Saint-Nicholas I was talking about is not Santa - and he isn't dressed like Santa either. He was a bishop. If you google "Sankt Nikolaus von Myra" and "Saint Nicholas of Myra" you can see what he looked like. And no, there was only this one. Santa on the other hand is just fictitious. So in Germany you can see both men during that season - people dressed like Santa and people dressed like Saint Nicholas. We even have songs that describe the difference.
Thank you so much for sharing this, Bracken and Lindsay. We are in the same boat as you were, with avoiding talking about what we believe about Christmas because it is complicated, and we didn't want to step on toes with extended family, etc. But this is so good and so helpful: to see Christ and not want to be distracted, regardless of what others do or don't do it where things came from. Our kids are looking on and learning and seeing what is real or not and what is selfish or not... What beauty and truth there is in Jesus who IS the Truth. "O come, let us adore HIM"-- Every single day!!
❤ Thanks for sharing. So many people get so upset over how other families choose to live. Ya'll and your children seem happy, healthy, and satisfied in Christ with how you've chosen to handle the world in which we live. We are very much the same. We love Jesus our God. We celebrate Him and leave all the cultural traditions(Santa, trees, all the Yada yada) alone. We usually have dinner, and some family members like to give our kids gifts, which they appreciate, but our kids are much happier giving gifts than receiving them. Forrest has gotten so tall. All the kids are growing up fast. Elijah looks so much like Ezra. And Lydia looks just like Joseph. They're all such good kids. I hope they know what a blessing they have in having you two as parents.❤❤
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ Absolutely love you all. May our LORD continue blessing you and your beautiful family in JESUS precious name. Much much much love, all the way from Bronx NYC❤
THANK YOU FOR SHARING I AM A MOM OF 8 and we don’t celebrate Christmas either but I do love being together AS A FAMILY and spending time talking about Jesus and his birth death and resurrection❤
I just love you guys!!!! Have been following since your inception of your channels and you guys bring me such joy. I have been suffering from anxiety and depression and PTSD and I have found when I need to re-center my faith, I come to your channels. Thank you for your marriage, your family, and most importantly, your faith and ministry.
I love the way the two of you have cultivated a beautiful, warm, loving, peaceful family. Just watching you brings glory to God. Forrest talks like his dad and is a combination of mom and dad in looks. Joseph looks like dad and is very blunt. Your 3rd child is a spitting image of mom. Silas is so cute! Your Christmas message was really good! The main thing is to keep Christ in Christmas regardless of how it is celebrated.
I appreciate hearing other Christian’s views on Christmas. I celebrate in the ways my conscience is clear and that gives me peace. You have a sweet family and the video is edifying❤
Thank you, I appreciate your sharing this. And how surprising it was to see the boys individually. You've all grown up so much since I started following you all. AND Sister is talking now! You wait, as you get older, you'll find yourselves seeing the passing of time by how big the kids get.. Love to you all : )
A time of the year that I feel a little closer to Heaven. My Mother, when I was small, told me that "Santa Claus was fun to pretend". I loved our Nativity set. Thank you!
Thank you! I truly admire how you always remain so peaceful and understanding in all of your videos and don't take part in the mutual aggression that has become so widespread. I look up to your example. - And I agree, it does not matter whether we celebrate Christmas or not, but how we do whichever we choose to do. Bombarding each other with expensive stuff, then getting drunk and starting an argument is obviously not the thing to do, but sitting there feeling smug and praying for the poor lost souls that dare put up a tree isn't, either! (Not referring to people who pray for others, but to those who do so out of feeling superior.)
I appreciate this clarification on how you celebrate this time of year. Praise God 👏 there are people like your family that are willing to share your understanding of celebration. We know this is not the time of year that Jesus was born because of the story in the Bible and when certain events happened in history. We are thankful that a lot of people are soft hearted towards hearing the gospel at Christmas time and that love and empathy is shown towards each other. I am thankful that people get together and show they care 🙏
Thank you so much. Christmas is a time to reveal the light of Christ Jesus in a giving and loving way, just as you share with us. So good to see you all well. God bless you from the UK. ❤️😄🙏
I think it's really sweet and heartfelt how much you can see how stressed Lindsay is throughout the video - she doesn't want to hurt people, she knows that Christmas can be such a sensitive topic, but she's still willing to stand firm in her convictions about it. Every holiday season, I feel like that too - I don't want to hurt people, but I don't want to lie for the sake of others either. I think it's also really sweet how Brackin gently checks in on her " are we doing alright so far? " ; this video is clearly something they agreed and coordinated on thoughtfully 💛
This was very timely for me. I am making costumes for kids and have put together a presentation for a church nativity. This is my sole focus for the season. I don't have any of the cultural things in my classroom either. You made me feel less alone. Praising the Lord for you. ❤
Thank you beloved Family of Tiny Notes for sharing with us all regarding the truth about Christmas! We don’t have all the Christmas trimming but we are so thankful for the true Christ in our heart in daily lives. I humbly pray for more of God’s children will be like us to love and pray for one another in Jesus Mighty Name! Amen! May the Lord eternally bless and keep you all in Jesus wonderful Name! Amen! 🕊👑🕊🥰🕊🙏🕊
May God richly bless your whole family. Thank you for your message of hope, love. After years of celebrating X-mas like this world arround us, know I know that the Christ celebration is to give to Him all the honor ! Be blessed dear family!!!
@@Pippy-f8rSukkot is a Jewish holiday and, by definition, has absolutely nothing to do with Jesus. However, since Christianity has its foundations in Judaism, I absolutely believe Christians should celebrate it.
@@saraschneider6781 This is biblically inaccurate. In Leviticus 23 it says that these are His Feast Days and Feast Days of THE LORD. It literally says this. Please go read it. It says nothing about Jewish people, it says they are HIS. Each Feast Day is a representation of Jesus! Once your eyes are opened to the beauty of HIS Feast Days and how they each represent Jesus you will be blown away! I used to think they were "Jewish" as well until He opened my blind eyes! Seek Him wholeheartedly about this and read Leviticus 23 on your own. It specifically says they are HIS days. We have put aside His instructions for the traditions of men and it breaks His heart. Please ask Him about this during your prayer time 💗
@@saraschneider6781 I fully understand you! I used to think the same thing until He opened my blind eyes!!! It says in Leviticus 23:2 concerning the Feasts of THE LORD. It says again in Leviticus 23:4, These ARE THE FEASTS of THE LORD. We have been taught that these are "Jewish" for so long that we miss what His Word actually says! It doesn't say they are Jewish.... It's says they are Feasts of THE LORD. Each Feast Day is a representation of Jesus!!!! He was THE Passover Lamb! Feast of Tabernacles is the Biblical thanksgiving and we celebrate Emmanuel God Who dwells with us in booths or tabernacles.This is why Peter said to Jesus in Luke 9:33 let us make three tabernacles. He was referring to Feast of Tabernacles!❤️ His instructions are clear on how He wants us to worship Him during His Feast Days. We no longer make any sacrifices because Jesus WAS THE sacrifice! However we are instructed to keep these Feast Days. If we worship Him then we are grafted in and we must worship Him according to His instructions. He says not to worship Him as the nations do. There are no scriptures stating that we are to celebrate Christmas. In fact if you do a study there's many scriptures that are against people worshipping under the evergreen trees. He says to worship Him in Spirit and Truth, yet December 25 is not the truth about His birth. People who tell their children about Santa are lying to them which is actually a sin according to His Word because we are not supposed to lie. Even if we remove the evergreen trees and Santa He tells us specifically not to worship Him as the nations do! His word says not to add to nor take away from His Word, yet people don't follow His instructions in Leviticus 23 which is removing those instructions. Then they add in Christmas which is a tradition of man. Jesus told us not to forsake His instructions and hold on to the traditions of men. Also we cannot forget about the fact that Jesus Himself was a Jew and The King of The Jews. He spent His whole life living out His Father's instructions, therefore He celebrated everything in Leviticus 23! Why wouldn't we want to do the same as our Savior? I sincerely encourage you to seek Him about this. Ask Him to show you how every Feast Day points to HIM. It is beautiful beyond words and I missed out on this because when someone told me their church was celebrating Passover I said, That's so stupid because that's Jewish! I had to repent for saying this because I was very convicted years later and He opened my blind eyes! Please don't harden your heart as I did and miss what He is trying to show you! Please read Leviticus 23 on your own to see for yourself that it says these are the Feasts of THE LORD. I pray this blesses you as much as it has me and my family!
I love your channel and music. You're a beautiful family with an inspiring faith. Your points about Christmas make a lot of sense! I do enjoy the Christmas tree and gifts, but they're not my favorite parts of the season. I don't have kids of my own yet and I'm not sure how I would handle Santa, but I believed as a kid and we still kept our main focus on Jesus. I really think there's no harm in Christmas trees, decorations, gifts within reason, special foods, and Christmas carols. I'd love to hear you all sing some Christmas carols that focus on Jesus. Every family finds what works for them, and it's most important that we honor Christ and express his love to others.
★ Check out our son Joseph's handstitched wallets - tinyurl.com/bdf53yut
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Giving glory to the Lord is what we should do it’s about Jesus for me Easter is the important time to celebrate
@@davidinchcliff4560 The focus and intent of our celebration is what matters. Historically, we understand the influence of the Romans on Christmas, and yes, perhaps, that is how Christmas came about, along with a mix of modern traditions, but we can un-pagonize Christmas by bringing the focus back on Christ, on how he came into this world, and what he went through to save us. When you do that, we can use this very Christmas to honor God. Please also read Romans 14:1-6. Perhaps it can give some clarity in the matter. God bless!! Thanks again Kirkland Family!!
Respectfully you cannot put something back into something it was never in.
Maybe next time watch the video before stirring up trouble.@@davidinchcliff4560
Wasn't Cains sacrifice to honor God also? Please remember to obey is better than sacrifice. When we honor God our way instead of His we are on very thin ice.@@anjelstar86
I never did Santa with my children. Never wanted to lie to them! One year, I had set up a small nativity & was showing it to my grandchildren. After they went home, I noticed that baby Jesus was missing. When I asked my 3 year old granddaughter about it, she said, “ I just wanted to take Jesus home with me for a little while.” She is now 21 & still loves Jesus. That is what His nativity is all about!
Oh, what a real wonderful Christmas episode. Thanks for Sharing. Jesus' with us
Amém meu amor Jesus nasceu morreu na cruz e ressuscitou e voltou para o céu e está vivo no céu a direita de Deus
I love your story that you shared with us. You all got it right. I am a Christian and that’s exactly how I believe. I do have a Christmas tree up, but that tree has nothing to do with Jesus, nor has it anything to do with Christmas. I just love looking at the lights on it, and that is all. I do wish you and your family a very Merry CHRISTmas.✝️❤️
Love that!… I couldn’t do the lie thing either:)
My niece was maybe two when baby Jesus went into a little pocket and rode along back to Grandma's house!
Such a wholesome, beautiful family. How I wish that I was raised this way , and my children and their children. God bless.
Your children don’t miss out on Christmas because they know the truth. Thank you for this encouraging video.
Amen! 👍🏻💯
@@belindadunne4312it’s important to focus on Jesus who is the truth
Amen.
I cannot tell you the joy Christmas brought in my life during childhood- in a dysfunctional hurting family- poor marriage of my parents. It connected Christ with giving. He gave to us and wants to still give healing and hope. Traditional Christmas was a light in my childhood. A huge light. I am grateful for it.
I agree, it was the same for me.
As a child in England it was a special time for me. Yes the Christmas tree and small gift. The nativity scene at church, Christmas carols, away in I a manger. And all the children walking into Chichester Cathedral with a lighted candle including me. Dad's sock on my bed all lumpy and filled with small items and an orange in the bottom. My best gift waS a new book. Mum's Christmas cake and roast dinner..
Your comments are so lovely and sweet. Very grateful that there are humble people who walk this earth. Many many many blessings to you kind folks! ❤🎉🎄
I LOVE Christmas and Santa. All of the Christian symbolism is there.
Thank you for sharing. I have not celebrated christmas (which is not a word in the Bible) since 1997. I struggled with this very thing in 1996. After reading the Bible, the conviction I got was Jesus wanted us to do one thing in remembrance of Him as His disciples. I celebrate Him every day of my life. You are a wonderful family. May God continue to bless all of you. Stay safe. ❤
It’s been about 6 years for me. I don’t miss it at all.
About fourteen years for me and I don't miss it. Maybe the hymns.
I grew up celebrating Christmas and raised my children doing so, but as my hunger to really know and serve Jesus grew, I began to be convicted about doing so. This is year number five for not celebrating. My husband and I love and serve and worship the Lord more deeply than ever. If I could have a do-over, I would not raise my children participating in Christmas activities, but would have a lot more time celebrating Jesus every day of life. It amazes and saddens me how much the world loves Christmas but hates Jesus Christ.
What a lovely comment. I too celebrate Jesus every day of my life, although I do enjoy taking time to remember the miracle of His birth at this time of year.
God bless you, learning a lot from you
Your last statement of 'The birth of Christ should unite us, not divide us' is so wise!
Thanks for sharing. We - a family in germany - do not celebrate christmas anymore. We celebrate Time together an that God send us his son - but without a tree or presents .... it feels wonderful - there is freedom❤
Lindsay pls sing some spiritual Christmass Carols
I'm confused. Christmas is about Jesus. Not trees or presents. So it sounds like you do celebrate it...
@@saraschneider6781 Christmas is a commercial festival and a lot of stress. In Germany there are Christmas markets and Advent. On December 6th, parents lie to their children and say that Santa has put something in their boots. The big topic is “Gifts”. We won't take part in that. There is no Christmas in the Bible. When we think of Jesus' birth (whether in February, July or December) it does not mean that we celebrate Christmas. The same goes for when we spend time together as a family. So, NO WE NO LONGER CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS!!! :)
@@saraschneider6781 "without" trees or presents - so we do NOT have presents or trees
What a wonderful testimony. I struggle every Christmas as I try to be a part of what my family calls Christmas without violating my own convictions and offending them. Its utterly impossible. Its all about the tree the gifts the football game the meal. There might be a candle light service or a meal time prayer. Many in my family would say they are Christian, but then why aren't we all focused on Christ? Christ just seems to be a footnote in the season. I feel like even many churches have adopted and blended so much of the worldly veiw of easter and Christmas and even embracing halloween. I used to say much only to no avail and achieved no more glory for God in that either. Its such a difficult time for me. I love the way you addressed your convictions. Praise God for your faithfulness to train up your children with a biblical world view with such love and mercy and grace.
Of course it is impossible what does the table of Christ have to do with the table of demons
Drive around you will find gaudy Santa and other types of decorations everywhere
loud Christmas music lights everywhere
haughty and a picture of wealth and pride
very few decorations that are about Jesus
Thank you for sharing this! We recently boxed up 2 huge Christmas trees and over 40 years accumulation of ornaments and decor; donated it all to Salvation Army! I've done a lot of soul searching recently and believe everything you have mentioned about the culture and how the birth of Jesus is no longer what most people focus on. So we've done away with all the "trappings" and focus on Jesus every day. He is to be celebrated always!
I’m so happy and proud of you. God bless!
Amen
@@stevevernon5038 Jennie Arnold.
Please don’t make Jesus Christ a religion which is of man - perpetrated by Satan
About works: We are not saved BY our works, yet James explains " faith without works is dead. " forgiven to DO good works 😊, to LOVE , reach others & shine His blessed light & Truth.
There are good works to be done ,part of His witness in & thru us. It is the good fruit of our being Born Again & by the H.Spirit that indwells us. Part of our Testimony you could say .
Great will be our spiritual reward even 1 day a variety of crowns will be given to lay at Jesus feet. :)
It is v.wise to seek Father God what He will have you do in all thgs. His will be done.
Personally gave most of it all up some 35yrs ago ,even the holiday so called name Christ MASS. Commercialism is alot of pressure.We found alot of freedom & even celebrated Hannakah -8 days a v. spec.time set aside daily.
You can learn so much thru wise resources , going deeper, thru mature elder Bro.s , & by digging in via prayer, be honest with yourself & Father God ,be led by H.Spirit studying as a Berean,what is Gods heart in this? & the origins of each ie.manger, sending of cards, tree, the 1st Pilgrims or Puritans would never allow it or a Nativity scene at all in the Colonies.
Many " traditions" of European immigrants were brought to the US/ America & embraced .
Jesus was even in the beginning with God , I & my Father are One, He is the Word ...many foreshadows of Him in OT.b4 His birth ,death & resurrection,& the New Covenant given❤
Love & prayers as you seek His blessed will & narrow way as a 4th Wise Man.
Y'all knocked it out of the ballpark!! Great job. Thank y'all for serving our Lord in every aspect of y'all's lives! ❤️🙌
What a mature young man Forrest has become. All your children are just lovely. Merry Christmas from Australia.
Love all those beautiful handsome boys!!!!!
You both are doing an amazing job raising your children in the Way they should go
Thank you for your video. In Belgium and the Netherlands, we celebrate Sinterklaas/Saint Nicolas on the 6th of December and children get presents on this occasion and it's easier to focus to the real meaning of Christmas as there is no Santa, with celebrating Jesus'birth , church, hymns, but also family gathering (we don't have thanksgiving) and what is important to me "Christmas is a time for sharing and giving". During the Advent we think to all people for who Christmas is painfull (sick people in the Hospital, elderly in nursing homes, homelesses, etc...) and we try to help them, giving groceries to the food bank, preparing boxes with some presents which will be given to homelesses for Christmas, singing carols in elderly caring centers, writing cards for them, children giving one of their toys for children in hospital or orphanages, etc... In my family, we have a Christmas tree and a scenery, and adults exchange little presents. I also bake Christmas cookies for my colleagues at work as the end of the year is always busy for the accountancy department and is a little attention which is appreciated by everybody, Christians, muslims and others .
I agree with your way of focusing on the TRUE meaning and the concept of giving regarding the man St. Nicolas and his compassionate walk with the needy. It is a balance as a Christian to listen to the Holy Spirit and not get caught up in all the trappings, overspending for gifts, and the rest, that can leave you empty inside, Especially the day after Christmas. I enjoyed my childhood Christmases when we had very little and were grateful. The excitement of the day coming, the tree decorating with Dad, who was a truck driver and was finally home with us, is a very dear memory. The smells sights and sounds, along with family being together I hold to my heart. After I got saved, it took on a whole new meaning! Some miracles, too many to tell! One was falling in love for the first time with my spouse, the birth of my daughter, and almost 39 years ago, finding an apartment a week before Christmas, after being in a shelter for homeless families! Jesus is the center of my life 365/24-7 , so I can feel free to celebrate, without the guilt! I did visit your country once! The people were very friendly and helpful to us! Merry Christmas!
Actually, on the 5th for the Netherlands.
I see both Sinterklaas and Christmas being celebrated here without it being about people of need. That would be nice. I guess it is not done everywhere, and it also depends on the intentions.
@@manisymone8622 Probably the evening of the 5th, which is the 6th (evening counts as the next day due to Jews seeing the sundown as the start of the day). The 6th is the feast of St. Nicholas.
You were ever so gracious in speaking about others who celebrate Christmas with all the American Christmas traditions. Lovingly said.
I think you are giving the right message about Christmas. As always, your gentle spirits help bring understanding to others. The family is looking happy and healthy.
Loved your final point! Let our brothers & sisters celebrate as they see fit.
I love your family!!! I actually agree with these statements, they totally make sense!!! May God richly bless you all!!!
I know you are so busy but I'm wondering if you could just do a quick (maybe 2 minutes) family update once a month so we can see how the children are growing and any life updates? I have been watching for several years and miss hearing from you. I'm 71 and don't do social media, just youtube. We haven't had a TV for almost 14 years and love the peace! Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit and His Word are first in our heart, mind, soul, spirit and body. Love your music, testimony, and the life you live in "Him" with your children. Thank you for all that you do for Him!
I'm wondering if something happened in their family. The father said his mental health wasn't good. He may have needed a break.
Though I live very far from you in Kenya Africa, I find myself totally in agreement with you about Christmas. Our family tradition for Christmas is that we attended the Christmas service and I enjoy singing the Christmas hymns a lot. I believe the word of God and His Holy Spirit should guide all aspects of our lives.
I was happy to see this video. I grew up in a religion that did not celebrate Christmas. When I was in my mid 30's, with young children I started keeping it but I never talked about Santa, gave gifts from him., etc. I'm back ti not keeping it I do give my grandchildren a small gift of money, but no linger do the tree thing. My biggest reason is that NO WHERE in the Bible does it tell us when He was born, but was very specific about His death and resurrection the other reason was because December 25th was ordained by Constantine the Great and I've studied. It seems Jesus was probably born in the Fall Holidays which sit about October. I do like to have a big meal with family, we just don't call-in Christmas, it's just when people have time off work fir a bit!
I love how you're raising your kids! I totally agree with your statements about Christmas and give you a big thumbs up.
Your family is so beautiful, so kind hearted and humble. The way your little girl said baby Jesus was just precious, God bless you all!
It is great to hear what your oldest son says, what he believes. It's also nice to hear what you believe!
Your oldest son put the meaning of Christmas so well! I know you are proud of him! I feel the same way God bless you all.
You handled the topic with such grace and conveyed the truth in a way that would not hurt the people who do not view it the way you do. That is the mark of true christian maturity. God bless the family!
Well said.
I agree--well done.
Gradually you displayed the difference between all that is fake and what is Truth! And all that in a spirit of humility. Very well done and so needed today!
❤yes indeed thank you from Europe
Yahshua was born in September According to Luke in scripture on the
feast of tabernacles he died on passover
I don’t know if you ever read your comments. I hope that you do. 😊
We very much enjoyed your video on what you do for Christmas. I thought I would share with you what we do.
My husband & I love Christmas, as do our children & grandchildren. It’s a very holy & special season for us. I so appreciate that you don’t come down on fellow believers who celebrate Christmas in a different way than you do. As the Scriptures say in Titus, “To the pure all things are pure.”
Christ is at the center of our Christmas. Everything we do to celebrate Christ’s birth draws our hearts closer to Him. So many beautiful things to use as object lessons when our children were little & now with our grandchildren!
Santa Claus has never been a part of our celebration.
We do get a fresh cut tree each year, the same way that I always get an Easter Lily for Easter. We also put lights up outside. The lights remind us that Jesus came into this dark world as the Light of the world, and that we are to let our lights so shine so that others can see Christ in us. Our Christmas tree takes us back to the garden of Eden & the sad fall of man. This was the first place that the promise of a Savior to come was mentioned. It also reminds us of the beautiful Tree of Life in the midst of the garden. The evergreen color of our tree reminds us of the eternal life found only in Christ.
The Christmas tree also reminds us that it was on a cruel tree that our Savior shed His precious blood & died to pay for our sins. Sometimes we have decorated our tree with Bible verses & different ornaments of fruit to remind us of the fruit of the Spirit.
And then there is the lovely fragrance of the tree. I love the smell of a Norway Spruce! 🥰 It reminds me of the precious spikenard that Mary (the sister of Lazarus) poured forth on our Lord before His death. To this day, whenever I smell a fresh cut Christmas tree I automatically think of Jesus.
We always had our children hang candy canes on our tree on Christmas Eve. This was to remind them of the shepherds keeping watch over their flocks by night when they were visited by the angels from on high, & told of the birth of the Savior. The candy canes look like the shepherd’s crooks, & remind us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. The red and white stripes of the candy canes reminds us of the purity of Christ & His precious blood shed for our sins.
I also always set up a village under our tree. I make sure the village is covered in snow. It looks so pretty. It reminds us of how Christ’s blood washes away all of our sins, & makes us whiter than snow.
So you see, everything about Christmas reminds us of Jesus. ❤️ That is why we love it so much.
We exchange gifts on Christmas morning to remind us of the wonderful gift that God gave to us in His beloved Sob. It also reminds us of the gifts of the wise men who came when Jesus was a young boy.
I just thought I would share with you how we celebrate Christmas, and why we love it so much.
We wish you a very blessed and merry Christmas! 🕊
God bless. ❤️
So very well said. Thank you for your gentle explanation of how your family celebrates Christmas. It breaks my heart how in the last five years the bickering among Christians around this time we choose to recognize His birth has become so prevalent and it continues to get worse. To us, not one day but the whole season is so special. We don't know when He was born but for me I need the reminder of His humble beginnings, the miracles that happened, how the whole world was changed. Thank you!
I couldn't agree with you all more! Your kids are so precious and well-mannered. I just love your family.
I've celebrated Christmas only a few times in my life.. as I grew up Jehovah's Witness we didn't celebrate it. The whole holiday was demonised by my mother so it's been a long unravelling for me how I view and choose to spend my time during this holiday. My youngest daughter is 3 and we haven't celebrated Christmas until this year I decided to do something. I live alone, and we are quite isolated from others so it feels right to have some decorations, and buy a few gifts to bring some comfort in our waiting while my husband is overseas.
I made some framed art about the birth of Christ and have been teaching my daughter about the birth of Christ and like Forest have been enjoying singing Christmas hymns too!
God bless you all and thanks for sharing your thoughts in Christmas, it definitely is an encouragement
Blessings to you this Christmas, may Immanuel comfort you!
@@beulahnisly2982 thank you ❤️😊
Hi friends…
How are you?
It’s a l long time we’re not hearing from you here on your blog channel …
Looking forward hearing from you.
We are missing you 🥰
I liked Forrests thoughts about Christmas. No Santa or Christmas trees for my family either. My son, who's in his 20's, recently thanked me for not lying to him about Santa when he was a young child. I always reminded him that Christmas is about the birth of Christ.
Christmas is about the birth of Nimrod and other false gods. Scripture is clear that we are not to worship Him in the ways pagans worship their gods.
I have no problem with having a Christmas tree. It is just a decoration like any other plant and flowers in my house. I see it as no difference as flowers and plants in a funeral service or brought to a loved one’s grave. Nature was created by our Lord and I see no reason why we would not be allowed to enjoy it. Great video guys!
Are you born again? Have you read the Bible?
Jeremiah 10:2-5 Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. [3] For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. [4] They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. [5] They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good.
@@noneedtoknowmyname2855 Yep. I am born again and have been for many many, many, years. And yes to the second question. I have and still do study the Holy Bible. I am very familiar with the scripture that you quote here. This scripture is speaking of idols and the worshipping of them. This isn’t even talking about a tree. It is an idol carved from a tree. I know of NO Christian (including myself) that worships their Christmas tree. However, for those that feel conviction of having a Christmas tree, then don’t have one. I have zero conviction of a Christmas tree. Nor do I have a problem with those that do. But I do have a problem of those that push their convictions on others. Our Bible tells us not to do that. To respect other Christians convictions.
Wonderful Video!!! Thank You for bringing Christ back up front for Christmas.
I just love your kids but Forrest has captured my heart. That child has become such a young man filled with love of the Lord! Such wisdom and maturity for such a young man. Your family brings joy and peace.
I so appreciated your video today. I love the lights around town and the music. I don't decorate much now that I live alone. My very favorite part of Chistmas was hearing my grandpa read Luke 2 on Christmas eve when our larger family would gather. He's past on these many years and I've moved far from my family. I now enjoy this time to reflect on the miracle of God coming to Earth - the beginning of His plan for us. I wish you many blessings in this season.
Spoken with such grace, respect and love. Thank you. Blessings to you all.
This is excellent. Thank you all for sharing your hearts with us. What a precious family ❤
So very encouraging when I hear the Truth about Christmas on media! Praise the Lord! I’m sharing!
God bless your family. Ten or more years ago I was guided to dig deeper into things. I’m 64 years old and I wish I would’ve learned when I was very young about everything. I stopped celebrating almost all of the holidays. My whole adult family still does but I will not force my beliefs on them. I didn’t grow up in a church but always knew about God. Until I’m guided to by the Holy Spirit, I will keep my mouth shut. God is good all the time.
‘a’ church signifies there are more
‘the’ is definite article - signifying but one
When a person is born again- spiritually - according to the word of God - penned down for our learning and edification - we are the Church
The Church is NOT a building one goes to - Holy Spirit comes TO us just as Jesus WENT to the people
We are the Church- Tabernacle- Temple and Tent of Meeting - He comes to live withIN us
Holy Spirit is the Teacher
Jesus Christ being the Head of and the Church- of every nation tribe and tongue His - the Great Speckled Bird of His Word
It IS written
💖👑
God doesn't want us to stop celebrating holidays...
Man the way you people were so careful in bringing up those points, trying not to hurt anybody by blunt harsh realities but still opening up the truth so beautifully is such a thoughtful thing for you to do. People need to have an opportunity to learn all of these and you are doing good justice to it by this video. I love what you guys do.
Love your perspective! As a Christian Great Grandma, I have gone through all the thoughts of this season. Christmas when I was a child leaves me with so many wonderful memories of family, songs of the blessed day he was born, church, and yes also Santa, trees etc. I want to honor the Lord, and came to the realization that He wants us to have fun, especially on His birthday. I feel He is right here with us. I love nature and so the tree for me is something He created to bless us. Merry Christmas! May you enjoy and celebrate every good thing with Joy!
THANK YOU! I have been sitting here for 20 minutes trying to write the same thing. It's the one time of the year where I can GIVE and no one fusses. 😊😊
Yes, Jesus right with us. Thats the overwhelming heavenly thruth. Thanks godfather for your Love.
Love this! 🥰
Yep, it’s the only time of the year that I can belt out in front of everybody. Not just Church people fall on your knees. Oh, he the angel voices, and nobody thinks I am preaching to them.
I have to agree with you about the tree. I brings lots of greenery indoors and it is so beautiful.
Thank you for reminding me that Celebrating Christ's incarnation is so important. I am grateful for this reminder because of the struggles I am dealing with. May I keep my eyes on His incarnation and enjoy Him this season no matter what my circumstances are right now. Thank you. Blessings as you celebrate Him this Christmas!
That was well balanced and edifying as intended. May you have a lovely Christmas with your beautiful family. God bless.
Your family could never be controversial ❤❤ Thank you for all your encouragement 😊
Amen! Well done video presentation. I enjoyed the family outing with you!! Thank you and God bless your family.
You couldn't said it better! My heart is 100% with you on this statements...thank you so much!!❤❤❤
Ich danke euch von Herzen für euren Beitrag, er hat mich sehr berührt ❤️🙏❤️. Danke Jesus Christus 🌈❤️🌈🙏🫂🙏
I have never had to lie to my kids about Santa Clause. Instead I prayed for wisdom. I wanted my kids to know the truth, but also not deprive them of any joy that was from God. So when my little girl asked, "Mama, is Santa Real? " I told her that there was a man named Saint Nicholas who went around giving presents to children. Some people think he is stll alive. What do you think? " and I let her decide for herself. The spirit of Christmas lives on through many generous people. Respect all of your beliefs. God bless, and Jesus is the reason for the season.
Thank you for sharing your family and your thoughts about the miracle of Jesus in this Christmas season.
I love this!! Coming from a family that celebrated Christmas in the traditional way and believing in Santa as a child, l was very disappointed to find out that Santa was a lie, and my husband and I decided we wouldn't have 'Santa' at our house with our children.. Over the last five years the Lord has been bringing my husband and I out of so many of the world's ways of celebrating Christmas, and opening our eyes to so many of the things that you are saying here. We too have 'simplified' this time of year to a meal with family, fellowshipping and enjoying each other. This was not even done on 'Christmas', but the week before, as we all can recognize that Christ was not born this time of year.
My parents wanted to draw names, and there was a very simple gift exchange where everyone got one gift to celebrate each other and the family Yahweh has given us.
Family is a gift, Yeshua is a gift, the Father's love is a gift 💗
l am thankful and blessed; the older we get, the more important family becomes.
I love your blogs and so appreciate the truth you share! Your boys are so wise! May Yahweh bless you and your family as you seek and follow Him 💗
-Just for the record,
Jesus was NOT born Dec.25
🎉Tammuz's B-Day is Dec.25
You can read about Tammuz in 👉(Ezekiel 8:14)
- JESUS was most likely born during "Sukkot" also known as feast of tabernacles, which is around mid October.
We can calculate this through the birth of John the Baptist, who was born 6 months before Jesus 😃.
God bless everyone 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
You did a good job of addressing this sensitive topic and leading people to the true essence of Christmas ! Love your channel
I love this. The message is excellent, but I also enjoyed seeing our family and my hometown on video.
Did you know that in Germany we haven't forgotten Saint-Nicolas? He "comes" to the kids on December 6, it's a special day, and you can see men dressed like him too, out on the Christmas markets (not just Santa!). I'm glad my parents never told us kids that Santa was real, but the bishop St-Nicolas sure is! By the way, we also celebrate the advent time, which are the weeks in December before Christmas. Advent means arival of the Lord. My family came together every Sunday to have a cozy time, with some nice foods like nuts, cookies, oranges and Christstollen, and lots of candles. A time I will never forget.
But that’s not what Saint Nicholas was. There may be more than one but the one I particular did give toys and also has passed away. He also was more of an introvert. But he didn’t dress the way he has been depicted and he wouldn’t want children lied to either. That’s just the thing. He was a godly man who wouldn’t lie to children.
I am also from Germany, celebrating Christmas, St. NIcolas, having nice food, Christstollen, putting up decoration and candles, but never lying about a Santa Claus, always focusing on the real meaning of Christmas. By the way, since you are from Germany, do you know german speaking christian families like the Kirklands that are on TH-cam? I haven't been able to find german family videos like this and would like to share something like that with my kids.
@@reflectionsinthebible3579I don't know exactly what you mean, but the Saint-Nicholas I was talking about is not Santa - and he isn't dressed like Santa either. He was a bishop. If you google "Sankt Nikolaus von Myra" and "Saint Nicholas of Myra" you can see what he looked like. And no, there was only this one. Santa on the other hand is just fictitious. So in Germany you can see both men during that season - people dressed like Santa and people dressed like Saint Nicholas. We even have songs that describe the difference.
@@steffin.4190 Unfortunately I haven't found a similar channel in German yet, sorry
Thank you so much for sharing this, Bracken and Lindsay. We are in the same boat as you were, with avoiding talking about what we believe about Christmas because it is complicated, and we didn't want to step on toes with extended family, etc. But this is so good and so helpful: to see Christ and not want to be distracted, regardless of what others do or don't do it where things came from. Our kids are looking on and learning and seeing what is real or not and what is selfish or not... What beauty and truth there is in Jesus who IS the Truth. "O come, let us adore HIM"-- Every single day!!
❤ Thanks for sharing. So many people get so upset over how other families choose to live. Ya'll and your children seem happy, healthy, and satisfied in Christ with how you've chosen to handle the world in which we live. We are very much the same. We love Jesus our God. We celebrate Him and leave all the cultural traditions(Santa, trees, all the Yada yada) alone. We usually have dinner, and some family members like to give our kids gifts, which they appreciate, but our kids are much happier giving gifts than receiving them. Forrest has gotten so tall. All the kids are growing up fast. Elijah looks so much like Ezra. And Lydia looks just like Joseph. They're all such good kids. I hope they know what a blessing they have in having you two as parents.❤❤
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Absolutely love you all.
May our LORD continue blessing you and your beautiful family in JESUS precious name.
Much much much love, all the way from Bronx NYC❤
THANK YOU FOR SHARING I AM A MOM OF 8 and we don’t celebrate Christmas either but I do love being together AS A FAMILY and spending time talking about Jesus and his birth death and resurrection❤
Beautiful family...God bless...
Beautifully said and right on time for our family! We love this so much! Thank you for sharing! God bless you all! ❤
I just love you guys!!!! Have been following since your inception of your channels and you guys bring me such joy. I have been suffering from anxiety and depression and PTSD and I have found when I need to re-center my faith, I come to your channels. Thank you for your marriage, your family, and most importantly, your faith and ministry.
I love the way the two of you have cultivated a beautiful, warm, loving, peaceful family. Just watching you brings glory to God.
Forrest talks like his dad and is a combination of mom and dad in looks.
Joseph looks like dad and is very blunt.
Your 3rd child is a spitting image of mom.
Silas is so cute!
Your Christmas message was really good! The main thing is to keep Christ in Christmas regardless of how it is celebrated.
My neice & her husband have cultivated a family much like theirs. Except they don't sing. 😆 But the kids are beginning to play instruments!
I fully agree with you. The really good news about Christmas is that Jesus came to turn us into children of God.
Thank you for all the statements and the work you put in to this beautiful vlog.
Love, peace, joy and hallelujah to our King of kings.
Lindsay, Bracken, and family, I say a hearty, “AMEN!” This was so beautifully done. Thank you!!
As our kids got older we now enjoy putting Christmas lights and our little ones enjoy looking at them.
Beautiful video! I agree!!!
I am a Catholic mom of 4 kids!
And I love celebrate the birth of Jesus.
blessings from New Zealand.
What a beautiful analysis of Christmas. Well thought out and done with a beautiful spirit.
Thank you so much.
❤️
I appreciate hearing other Christian’s views on Christmas. I celebrate in the ways my conscience is clear and that gives me peace. You have a sweet family and the video is edifying❤
Have a read of Exodus 32 and what Aaron did
BRAVO to you. You are blessed.
Thank you, I appreciate your sharing this. And how surprising it was to see the boys individually. You've all grown up so much since I started following you all. AND Sister is talking now! You wait, as you get older, you'll find yourselves seeing the passing of time by how big the kids get.. Love to you all : )
A time of the year that I feel a little closer to Heaven. My Mother, when I was small, told me that "Santa Claus was fun to pretend". I loved our Nativity set. Thank you!
Love statement no 8. Thank you for sharing your thoughts! They are based on truth 🙏🏼 God’s blessings on you all ❤
Such an encouraging video. Your children are so godly, may the Lord bless them always.
Beautifully stated and beautifully shared. Blessings to your family on this day, and every day, that the Lord hath made🕊
Thank you! I truly admire how you always remain so peaceful and understanding in all of your videos and don't take part in the mutual aggression that has become so widespread. I look up to your example. - And I agree, it does not matter whether we celebrate Christmas or not, but how we do whichever we choose to do. Bombarding each other with expensive stuff, then getting drunk and starting an argument is obviously not the thing to do, but sitting there feeling smug and praying for the poor lost souls that dare put up a tree isn't, either! (Not referring to people who pray for others, but to those who do so out of feeling superior.)
I absolutely agree with you 100%. God bless you all and Merry Christmas ❤
I appreciate this clarification on how you celebrate this time of year. Praise God 👏 there are people like your family that are willing to share your understanding of celebration. We know this is not the time of year that Jesus was born because of the story in the Bible and when certain events happened in history. We are thankful that a lot of people are soft hearted towards hearing the gospel at Christmas time and that love and empathy is shown towards each other. I am thankful that people get together and show they care 🙏
God bless you all!
Wesołych Świat, Narodzenia Jezusa Chrystusa, Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku. ❤❤❤❤❤
May God Bless this entire world with Peace this Christmas!
Thank you so much. Christmas is a time to reveal the light of Christ Jesus in a giving and loving way, just as you share with us. So good to see you all well. God bless you from the UK. ❤️😄🙏
I think it's really sweet and heartfelt how much you can see how stressed Lindsay is throughout the video - she doesn't want to hurt people, she knows that Christmas can be such a sensitive topic, but she's still willing to stand firm in her convictions about it.
Every holiday season, I feel like that too - I don't want to hurt people, but I don't want to lie for the sake of others either.
I think it's also really sweet how Brackin gently checks in on her " are we doing alright so far? " ; this video is clearly something they agreed and coordinated on thoughtfully 💛
I'm missing you guys!
Wonderful video. So precious to hear Lydia say baby Jesus ❤ i love seeing the children interacting
Very well done and thoughtful towards the real meaning of our Lord coming into the world. . ❤
Boys are precious 🤗
Love how you approached this. Modern Christmas is so similar to Saturnalia, the ancient Roman festival.
Lord bless and keep you. Wonderful grace 🙏❤️
This was very timely for me. I am making costumes for kids and have put together a presentation for a church nativity. This is my sole focus for the season. I don't have any of the cultural things in my classroom either. You made me feel less alone. Praising the Lord for you. ❤
You are so loved and Jesus will crown you for your true dedication to his Kingdom.
Thank you for sharing. Bless your family.
Just absolutely wonderful! Thank you so much for putting it in such a perfect way. God bless you all. Thank you once again!!!
Beautiful 💖✨️🙏💫❤️🤍⚘️🐑🦁🌿🕊 Thank you. ❤️✨️❤️✨️❤️✨️❤️✨️❤️🤍🤍🤍
Thank you beloved Family of Tiny Notes for sharing with us all regarding the truth about Christmas! We don’t have all the Christmas trimming but we are so thankful for the true Christ in our heart in daily lives. I humbly pray for more of God’s children will be like us to love and pray for one another in Jesus Mighty Name! Amen! May the Lord eternally bless and keep you all in Jesus wonderful Name! Amen! 🕊👑🕊🥰🕊🙏🕊
You did a great job presenting your convictions. Listening from Thailand.
Best video ive seen on christmas yet! You guys are such a blessing!
Thank you for sharing this with us ❤
I love you all !!!
May God richly bless your whole family.
Thank you for your message of hope, love. After years of celebrating X-mas like this world arround us, know I know that the Christ celebration is to give to Him all the honor !
Be blessed dear family!!!
My celebration of the birth of Christ happens in the fall. No presents but the celebration last all week long and the kids REALLY look forward to it
Are you referring to Sukkot? We celebrate it as well! We don't celebrate it as a birthday but because it's the Biblical thanksgiving 💕
Fall?
@@Pippy-f8rSukkot is a Jewish holiday and, by definition, has absolutely nothing to do with Jesus. However, since Christianity has its foundations in Judaism, I absolutely believe Christians should celebrate it.
@@saraschneider6781 This is biblically inaccurate. In Leviticus 23 it says that these are His Feast Days and Feast Days of THE LORD. It literally says this. Please go read it. It says nothing about Jewish people, it says they are HIS. Each Feast Day is a representation of Jesus! Once your eyes are opened to the beauty of HIS Feast Days and how they each represent Jesus you will be blown away! I used to think they were "Jewish" as well until He opened my blind eyes! Seek Him wholeheartedly about this and read Leviticus 23 on your own. It specifically says they are HIS days. We have put aside His instructions for the traditions of men and it breaks His heart. Please ask Him about this during your prayer time 💗
@@saraschneider6781 I fully understand you! I used to think the same thing until He opened my blind eyes!!! It says in Leviticus 23:2 concerning the Feasts of THE LORD. It says again in Leviticus 23:4, These ARE THE FEASTS of THE LORD. We have been taught that these are "Jewish" for so long that we miss what His Word actually says! It doesn't say they are Jewish.... It's says they are Feasts of THE LORD. Each Feast Day is a representation of Jesus!!!! He was THE Passover Lamb! Feast of Tabernacles is the Biblical thanksgiving and we celebrate Emmanuel God Who dwells with us in booths or tabernacles.This is why Peter said to Jesus in Luke 9:33 let us make three tabernacles. He was referring to Feast of Tabernacles!❤️ His instructions are clear on how He wants us to worship Him during His Feast Days. We no longer make any sacrifices because Jesus WAS THE sacrifice! However we are instructed to keep these Feast Days. If we worship Him then we are grafted in and we must worship Him according to His instructions. He says not to worship Him as the nations do. There are no scriptures stating that we are to celebrate Christmas. In fact if you do a study there's many scriptures that are against people worshipping under the evergreen trees. He says to worship Him in Spirit and Truth, yet December 25 is not the truth about His birth. People who tell their children about Santa are lying to them which is actually a sin according to His Word because we are not supposed to lie. Even if we remove the evergreen trees and Santa He tells us specifically not to worship Him as the nations do! His word says not to add to nor take away from His Word, yet people don't follow His instructions in Leviticus 23 which is removing those instructions. Then they add in Christmas which is a tradition of man. Jesus told us not to forsake His instructions and hold on to the traditions of men. Also we cannot forget about the fact that Jesus Himself was a Jew and The King of The Jews. He spent His whole life living out His Father's instructions, therefore He celebrated everything in Leviticus 23! Why wouldn't we want to do the same as our Savior? I sincerely encourage you to seek Him about this. Ask Him to show you how every Feast Day points to HIM. It is beautiful beyond words and I missed out on this because when someone told me their church was celebrating Passover I said, That's so stupid because that's Jewish! I had to repent for saying this because I was very convicted years later and He opened my blind eyes! Please don't harden your heart as I did and miss what He is trying to show you! Please read Leviticus 23 on your own to see for yourself that it says these are the Feasts of THE LORD. I pray this blesses you as much as it has me and my family!
Thanks 4 sharing w/ us!! Lil girl is talking!! So cute!🤩🥰
Наша семья поздровляет Вас и всех с предстоящим ,живым праздником рождества Иисуса Христа Господа нашего !!!
Amen…..and I pray the grace of God on your blessed family 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I love your channel and music. You're a beautiful family with an inspiring faith. Your points about Christmas make a lot of sense! I do enjoy the Christmas tree and gifts, but they're not my favorite parts of the season. I don't have kids of my own yet and I'm not sure how I would handle Santa, but I believed as a kid and we still kept our main focus on Jesus. I really think there's no harm in Christmas trees, decorations, gifts within reason, special foods, and Christmas carols. I'd love to hear you all sing some Christmas carols that focus on Jesus. Every family finds what works for them, and it's most important that we honor Christ and express his love to others.