Christmas should be the season wherein we make a stand for whom and in what we believe…
Christmas, and all that it represents, should give us pause to consider what is important and what is not in our lives, and, as we make a public statement about our values and beliefs, in turn, we are contributing to moral education of our children.
By modelling and by example, we show children what we feel is right and what is wrong, and what are those values that we may want our children to learn and communicate?
- Knowing right from wrong.
- Being honest.
- Showing respect for the elderly, for those with disabilities and for those less fortunate than ourselves.
- Understanding that rules and laws are for our protection and the protection of others and that they make our lives more orderly and safe as a result.
- Being kind and affirming to others.
- Understanding that anger and disappointment should be appropriately expressed, in ways that do not hurt ourselves or others.
- Appreciating our families and, particularly, our parents for the sacrifices they make for us.
- Following the loving way of Jesus Christ shows us how to live our lives and the Bible tells us what to do. Christians who have given their lives to Jesus should prayerfully follow His example and tell others about Him.
But why should children learn about morals and values?
- Knowing about right and wrong in this way gives the child a frame of reference for his own behaviour.
- In considering others, the child learns to become less ego-centric and more concerned about the well-being of others.
- Being in a community that shares the same beliefs, values and behaviours give the child a sense of belonging and a sense of security.
- Knowing and understanding one’s beliefs allows the child to have a sense of purpose and direction.
“You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.”