To some thinking about Christmas shopping in early November is ridiculous, but to me once November 1st comes around I am all Christmas, all the time. I just love this holiday! But in past years, as our family has grown, we have found it harder and harder managing the present volume for our kids. And this issue came to a head when my husband was laid off.
At the time, I was pregnant with our fourth, and husband was experiencing terrible back problems. Though times were tough (nearly a year) our great escape was focusing on the joy of the holiday (and the little bundle set to arrive a few months later). My husband and I sat down and created a list of all our nieces and nephews. We budgeted how much we’d spend, and then hit the stores. But when it came time to shop for our kids (que dramatic music). And discovering the three gift rule.
We were at a loose. This time of year we traditional spoiled our kids. And we’ve never felt bad about that, but during the year we live within our means, only getting what we truly needed. But that year finances were a big factor. Well, God revealed something to me. A lesson I may not have learned if it wasn’t for our circumstances. Now today’s Christmas gifts for my kids are not just about being smart with our funds (which still is important), but also about being wise and bring the focus back to Jesus.
Many of you know the story of Jesus birth see Matthew 2. He arrived humbly, without fan fair. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords was born in a manger. Three wise men then came to visit baby Jesus. They traveled a great distance to be the first to welcome our Savior. They each brought offerings representing guidelines that my family follows on how we are to treat gift giving during the holidays.
Myrrh-represents a need: The first gift is always something our children can use, and meets a physical need. These items can range from a new pair of shoes to tops and pants, or pajamas. Even edible gifts can round out this category. This Christmas we plan to place different cookie recipes in each of our kiddos stockings and then choose one to bake each day.
Gold-represents a want: As a busy mom with four kiddos, I like to use this gift to show my kids just how much I know them. From remembering that doll house they didn’t get on their birthday, to that new video game; that their friends are going on and on about. This gift meets an emotional. Not just because of the material item itself, but for the time, thought, and love that goes into it too.
Frankincense-represents the spiritual: This is the most beneficial gift of all. No matter their age there are so many amazing things you can get (devotionals, DVDs, CDs, Bible board games, and crafts) to help your children grow in their spiritual walk. And unlike the previous two gifts, what they receive from this will change them from the inside out.
Though these guidelines may not work for you and your family I hope that you will appreciate their purpose. When I see all the angry faces in the stores shopping for the perfect gift, I can’t help but be sad. Those individuals have completely missed the point. So let us not get caught up in the ‘madness’ of things, or go overboard in our spending. Let’s refocus and remember why we celebrate this time of year, for both our kids sake and ours. Showing the love of Christ matters most.
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all produce. Proverbs 3:9
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33
Thank you, Lord, for sending your Son. He was born to die on the cross for all of our sins though he was blameless. Oh, how loved we are. Let this season be a time of thanking you and showing others who you are. Let the way we live, and how we talk, reveal the joy and peace you’ve placed in us. Thank you for the gift of salvation. -Amen