Here is a tradition that is new to me, but one I definitely want to start when I have grandchildren. My sweet friend Kelli, who is a young mom of two precious girls, is the one who told me about this tradition. Instead of putting the focus on gifts and Santa Claus, this activity will help children focus on scripture and the true meaning of Christmas.

Kelli got this idea from Sally Clarkson, an author that she enjoys. In her book The Life Giving Table, Sally mentions this tradition of having a Shepherd’s Meal on Christmas Eve. Sally and her family have done this for 30 plus years. I love how she says in her book,

“My desire from the beginning was to have a simple meal, no fuss, so that they could focus on the story of the night when Christ burst into the world. Our shepherd’s meal as it has evolved, is still simple, but so delicious and rich in meaning for all of us. Each year we gather in deep anticipation of good food shared over the marvel of God coming to ordinary people like those long-ago shepherds and to us as well.”

I love this idea and hope to start it with my family someday. Even if you aren’t able to do this on Christmas Eve, you can do this sometime in the month of December with your family and focus on the Christmas story. Sally Clarkson and her family have soup and soft cheeses, as well as fruit like orange slices, grapes and apples. Kelli and her family have soup, some bread and crackers as well as some cheese, hummus, and a fruit and vegetable tray.

Since the shepherds most likely ate outside while tending to their sheep, it is part of the tradition to dine by candlelight.