Gift Giving for the Holidays, Phase II

Since last Christmas, my husband and I have spent alot of time reconstructing what this season means to us.

What is Christmas about?
How do we celebrate THAT?

Let's face it. We all love presents. But when I think of Christmas, I think of music playing and lights glowing and snow. I think of meals with family and friends, warm drinks in front of a fireplace, laughter and love.

And I think of what we are to be celebrating to begin with. The birth of Jesus, our Lord and Saviour.

I feel bad that it is my second thought often. But I recognize that society as a whole is BOMBARDED with Christmas decor, music, lights, sales, toy catalogs, and spiced pumpkin lattes. And I recognize too that my grandmother, who LOVED LOVED LOVED Christmas, and who raised me and my brother, was a GIFT GIVER!

That is not a bad thing. It is one of the Five Love Languages. Unfortunately... it is the only one I am quite fluent in. And I am trying to widen my repertoire for the benefit of my loved ones and myself.

SO, I am trying to focus my own thoughts and the celebration of my family towards the REASON for the SEASON. Jesus Christ, sweet and fragile babe, born to walk on this earth with mankind..... born to die for our sins....born to redeem those who could not ever redeem themselves.... born to redeem me.

So, how do I go about celebrating the birthday of the Lord that loves the lowly?

My husband had a great idea to start searching the local community, and abroad for charities that we could give to. Local food banks, homeless shelters, schools for underprivileged communities, etc.

And I also was blessed to find a GREAT advent calendar this week that focused on giving to others for the Christmas spirit. I will be paring it down this year to make sure it is doable for my family and small children. But I felt that it really would bless my children and myself to be actively blessing others this year.

http://www.kidscorner.net/specials/downloads/

Some of the activities I think are perfect for our family include, make cookies and visit someone who is lonely, create your own christmas cards and send to friends and family, and sing christmas carols!

And for our family and friends, I have found some great treats the kids can help make that will brighten their spirits and bring them great, yummy joy.

I am REALLY looking forward to Christmas. The greatest gift has already been given. Receive it! And spend the rest of your life REJOICING IN IT!