Unwrap the Best Gifts

Written by Rebecca Ingram Powell

This article is courtesy of ParentLife.

“What do you want for Christmas, Isaiah?” I asked my 6-year-old neighbor. I was anticipating his reply of action figures or the latest video games when his answer caught me by surprise. “I just want my family to be together again.” Isaiah’s dad was hospitalized, battling cancer. The situation, however, had given Isaiah something most children his age do not have: a perspective on what is really important.

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Every Christmas, Christian families struggle in a culture overcome with materialism. How do you teach your child the worth of a true, lasting gift versus the temporary thrill a toy or game provides? Consider helping your family unwrap the following gifts as you seek to focus on Christ this Christmas season. It just might change the heart of your home!

• Unwrap contentment. As a mom, I have discovered I cannot compete with the numerous ads for the latest and greatest gifts and gadgets. Advertisers work overtime targeting my unsuspecting children, creating false needs, and encouraging greed. This year, turn off commercial television during the holidays. Entertain your family by watching classic Christmas videos, attending community choral events, or reading aloud together.

• Unwrap ingenuity. Spend quality time with your family making candy and cookies for friends. Your child can help in every aspect of this project, from making the grocery list to delivering the goodies. Show your child how a little money goes a long way when you make the effort to do it yourself. Encourage her to find satisfaction in the joy of giving something from her own hands and heart.

• Unwrap charity. Collect your family’s loose change throughout the year. Set aside the money for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering® for international missions. Or help a needy family in your community. This activity keeps the spirit of Christmas alive all year long. It teaches your child the value of saving, and it helps your family stay mindful of the needs of others. You will be surprised at how your pocket change adds up! For even more fun, ask another family to save with you. Together, you may be able to provide for an entire family’s Christmas needs.

• Unwrap thankfulness. Drive your child through some of the richest neighborhoods in town to see the fine homes and fancy lights. Next, drive through a poor community. Note the obvious needs. As a family, pray for the families who live there.

• Unwrap truth. Gather around the kitchen table and spend time defining the true meaning of Christmas. It can be a vision statement worded simply for a younger child. An older child might look up Scripture that summarizes the significance of Christ’s birth. Write Scripture on a piece of poster board and decorate it with Christmas colors. Display it in a prominent place in your home as a reminder during the holidays. 

Hectic holiday schedules along with the pressure of shopping lists can quickly drain your strength and energy. It is easy to lose your perspective on what is really important. This Christmas, bring your family together and resolve to focus on Christ, getting wrapped up in His love and peace.

Rebecca Ingram Powell is the author of Baby Boot Camp: Basic Training for the First Six Weeks of Motherhood. She and her family make their home in Nashville, Tennessee. Visit her Web site at www.rebeccapowell.com.