Today is National Cookie Day, a made-up holiday to promote one of our favorite desserts. Businesses are giving away cookies today, or they are bundling them together in insanely great deals to entice us to partake. We don’t need much of a reason to enjoy these delightful little treats.

According to the website nationaldaycalendar.com, we can thank the Dutch for more than windmills and tulips.  The English word “cookie” is derived from the Dutch word koekie meaning “little cake.” I’m planning on doing my part today to celebrate this national day of indulgence.

Now, why should you care that today has been set aside for something like National Cookie Day? How does this even remotely relate to your Bible study ministry?

Wait for it…wait for it…

If someone can invent a day and a reason to celebrate a made-up holiday and something like a cookie, surely your Bible study group could celebrate the Christmas season and set a date to celebrate Christmas by holding a group Christmas party. My Bible study group is gathering together this coming Saturday night. Don’t let the cookie people have all the fun in December!

Here’s why I like the practice of scheduling a group party, even though finding a day and time might be challenging.

1. People who are somewhat connected to your group will turn out for a party – We all have group members who are sporadic in their attendance. A party can be a good excuse for them to jump back into group life.
2. Guests can easily be included – A Christmas party is a good way to pull guests who are potential group members into the life of your group. Everyone likes a party. Social events make it easier to know people outside a more formal time of Bible study. Remember: people assume that your church and your group are going to be friendly; what guests are wondering is, “Will I be able to make friends here?”
3. It’s good to have fun – Laughter is a gift from God and it’s good for the soul. Ecclesiastes 3:4 reminds us that there is a time to mourn and a time to laugh.

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