The Joy of Giving

Christmas is right around the corner filled with twinkling lights, festive music, and the warmth and excitement of family gatherings. It is my favorite time of year but let’s be honest, it’s also the busiest time of year. If we are not intentional, the hustle and bustle can overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. We can miss the joy of giving, the joy of creating memories, and, most importantly, the reason for the season…Jesus.

As Christians, we know that Jesus is the ultimate gift. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. “This verse captures the heart of Christmas. God’s gift of His Son, Jesus, is the ultimate expression of love, a gift that changed the world! This act of love invites us to reflect God’s generosity by giving to others and keeping Jesus at the center of our celebrations.

I know how challenging it can be to prioritize Jesus during the Christmas rush. Family gatherings, school programs, and church events can quickly fill up our calendars. That’s why it’s important to be intentional. Plan ways to focus on Jesus throughout the season and have a backup plan for when life gets chaotic.

Here are a few practical ways to keep Christ at the center:

· Family Devotions: Read the Christmas story from Luke 2 together. Reflect on what it means that Jesus came to earth to save us.

· "Jesus Jar": Each day, encourage family members to write down ways they’ve seen Jesus’ love in action. Share these moments during dinner or before bedtime.

· Giving Traditions: Bake cookies for neighbors, donate to a local charity, or make handmade cards for nursing home residents. Involve your children in these activities to teach them the joy of giving.

Acts 20:35 reminds us, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." This scripture captures the heart of Christmas. Teaching children the joy of giving not only fills their hearts but also reflects God’s heart. After all, Christmas is a celebration of God’s ultimate gift to us.

You can embrace the joy of giving by sponsoring a family in need, choosing an angel from a giving tree, or donating gently used toys or clothes to local missions. Sharing what you have with others is a beautiful way to honor Jesus and celebrate this joyous time.

Starting a family tradition around giving can make your celebrations even more meaningful. For instance, encourage your children to create homemade gifts for friends and family. This teaches thoughtfulness and shows that giving does not have to be expensive to be meaningful. When children see how their generosity impacts others, they begin to understand how God uses us to bless others. It’s a beautiful way to build lasting memories and a foundation of generosity.

Some of my favorite Christmas memories with my daughter aren’t about elaborate gifts or events. They are simple moments: baking together, wrapping gifts, singing Christmas songs, and gathering around the table with family. We also spent the 12 days leading up to Christmas reflecting on the different names of Jesus, reading scripture about it, and placing corresponding ornaments on the tree. Another cherished tradition is attending Christmas Eve services together.

Sitting in the glow of candlelight, surrounded by loved ones, and reflecting on Christ’s birth is a powerful reminder of what we are celebrating.

Traditions don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful either. Sometimes the simplest traditions become the most cherished. Throw a birthday party for Jesus or brainstorm one act of kindness you can do each day for someone leading up to Christmas.

Matthew 5:14-16 reminds us, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden... let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." This Christmas let’s commit to being that light by focusing on Jesus, giving selflessly, and creating intentional memories as we reflect His love to a world that needs it.

Christmas isn’t about the presents under the tree; it’s about God’s presence in our lives. It’s about the joy of giving; a gift, a kind word, or our time. Let’s celebrate the season by sharing His love, living out His example, and making memories that glorify Him.

So, as you hang the lights, wrap the gifts, and sip the cocoa, remember the greatest gift ever given. Celebrate Jesus. Let the joy of giving fill your heart and home with His love.