Make Christmas Matter: Your Gift to Jesus

Christmas is a time for exchanging presents. Jesus gives us the gift of himself. This year, consider giving him a birthday present in return. Not because we need to repay him for what he’s done (we could never afford to), but simply because we love him. And we want to teach our kids that Christmas is not just about getting but giving as well—especially giving to Jesus.

Here’s one idea how.

Have everyone in your family choose one “gift” to give to Jesus. Ask them to write their gift on a slip of paper. Your gift could be:

• An action or virtue (for example, “I’ll be kinder to my sister”)
• A worry (your job anxieties, health concerns, your fear of heights—whatever traps you; entrust it to Jesus)
• A personal sacrifice (maybe an unhealthy habit or idol)
• A pursuit or dream (your hopes for a baby, a goal to start a business or run a marathon, etc.)

You get the idea. Choose a meaningful gift and give it to the Lord. Then place these slips of paper in your stockings as your Christmas offering to Jesus. It’s a symbolic way to commit this Christmas—and all year long—to our Savior.

Merry Christmas, everyone!