Giving With Purpose

It is hard to imagine celebrating Christmas in the modern world without thinking about giving gifts. But, have you ever thought to yourself, “Why do we give gifts at Christmas?” In some ways, the tradition of giving gifts at Christmas is a very ancient tradition. In other ways, giving gifts at    Christmas is a  relatively new development, as well.

Today, we all give gifts at Christmas for our own reasons. For some, it is a way to celebrate the Christian holy day. For others, it is a special time to let family and friends know that you care by giving gifts. At times, giving gifts at Christmas becomes almost mechanical, and a chore; when this happens, it is worth stepping aside for a few moments to consider why exactly you give gifts at Christmas.

If we do not give it any thought, then it certainly will become a tradition void of meaning.  Let’s vow, as Christians who desire a ‘sacred Christmas’ to give with Jesus in mind.  To give Jesus to those we love can be our ultimate purpose.  Think about this for a moment, suppose you could give the gift that would make someone happy for a long time, wouldn’t that be grand?  Well how can anyone truly be happy without Jesus?  Without forgiveness,  without heaven, without His Spirit, without faith, hope and love; actually there is no real happiness apart from Jesus.  I think we must find a way to include Him in our gifting.  Maybe just a prayer over the gift, maybe include Jesus on the tag (i.e. from grandpa in the love of Jesus), maybe just come out and say; “this gift is representing the greatest gift of all, Jesus”. 

We can find some way to make this holiday a holy day.  Then it will be sacred.