I think that I am a participant in the "Dark Culture." For the first time ever, Kim woke up this morning to go and be part of the madness that is called "Black Friday." I supported her in this endeavor by "watching" the boys and attempting to clean the house this morning.
I, by no means, think that buying things and showing up for great sales at 4am in the morning is evil. I do think, however, that we focus too much on our pleasureful consumeristic tendencies during the Christmas season. I know enough about myself to know that I am very comfortable with receiving and giving gifts, which goes along with the spending of hundreds of dollars, yen, pounds, euros or whatever on merchandise every year during this time.
With that I submit this video for your examination.
I don't know much about Advent Conspiracy beyond what I have read on their website. I also know that there are tons of other similar and different-but-just-as-worthy ministries out there. Let's consider how we can limit the amount we spend on stuff and think more about giving our money to those who are in need. More importantly, let us think about how we can focus more on JESUS this season than on ourselves and our American materialism. The Callihans will still be doing presents and such this year, but my hope is that we will make Christmas more of a celebration of Him than we have in the past.
Does anyone have any practical ideas for how to do that? I want to make my family one that actually loves Jesus and not one that simply talks about Him. I would love suggestions! Seriously, write some suggestions on my comment wall!
Update - Check out Walt Mueller's (President of CPYU) blog. He has the same kinds of thoughts about "Black Friday" as well - Update Over.
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3 comments:
I'm buying/reading this book a bit each day leading up to Christmas.
http://www.wtsbooks.com/product-exec/product_id/5835/nm/Come_Thou_Long_Expected_Jesus_Experiencing_the_Peace_and_Promise_of_Christmas_Paperback_
Jen,
How did you hear of the book? Have you started reading it yet?
Awesome post, Miah. I'm going to post that video over on my blog.
My cousins and I normally exchange gifts with one another. Last year, instead of doing the same old thing, we took up a collection and donated money to Kiva.org, an organization that sets up people in developing parts of the world with interest-free micro loans. It's a great organization, if you ask me. It's a great way to use your wealth to help other people develop their own.
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