The Importance of Nativity Scenes
With Christmas just around the corner, Christians everywhere are beginning to think about how to decorate their homes to celebrate their faith. While Christmas trees have become ubiquitous, they don’t offer families the kind of faith-based appeal as setting up a manger nativity for Christmas.
Just about every Christian is familiar with the nativity scene, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing new to learn. Read on to find out about the history of nativity scenes and get some ideas for contemporary use.
Origins of the Nativity Scene
The creation of the first nativity scene is attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi. Like modern families who choose to incorporate this traditional decoration, St. thanksgiving coloring pages wanted to draw attention away from the secular and materialist act of gift-giving and place it back where it belonged, on the worship of Christ. St. Francis’ nativity scene was set up using live humans and animals, but static nativity scenes are just fine, too.
Components of Nativity Scenes
Nativity scenes don’t have to incorporate live actors. Many modern nativity scenes feature wooden, ceramic, or plastic figurines instead. Either way, they must contain a few key components in order to portray the birth of the Lord accurately.
Of course, the most important figure should always be the infant Jesus. Mary and Joseph should be placed inside the manger close to the Christ child. Most people also arrange the three wise men, the shepherds that were led to the manger, some animals such as camels, donkeys, and sheep, and one or more angels looking over the scene.
Where to Place Nativity Scenes
Most Christian families place their nativity scenes on their front lawns during the Christmas season. Those who want to place their nativity scenes outdoors should purchase or create figurines made of durable, weather-resistant materials. Smaller nativity scenes are perfect for indoor environments and can be placed on mantels, tabletops, or anywhere else that is large enough to accommodate a small diorama.
Setting Up lol coloring pages with children may want to use setting up their nativity scenes as an opportunity to share Bible stories with their kids. Assigning mermaid coloring pages is a great way to get everyone involved. One parent can read the story of the nativity while the children listen and place the figures accordingly.
Parents with small children who aren’t yet familiar with the nativity should use simple words and clarify confusing concepts. The story of Jesus’ birth should be made accessible to everyone in the family. Nativity scenes make it easier for young children to understand.
