(W)holy, (W)holy, (W)holy: Health, Healing and Wholeness Article for December 2009

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone.  To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good…All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 11)

Here we are, once again, in the season of gift giving.  For some, Christmas may be a little different this year, because economics have shaped the way we celebrate.  Many have found it necessary to limit the amount of money spent on gifts to loved ones; some may have eliminated gift giving altogether.  Some may be finding themselves celebrating at home vs. traveling by car or plane to loved ones in other states.  This is not a bad thing!  Perhaps it is time that we give more deliberate time and thought toward celebrating the season more simply, for when we don’t make the connection between Christ and our gift-giving, Santa becomes the spirit of Christmas.

Throughout the past month, I’ve been gathering a few non-traditional ideas for gift-giving this Christmas, and I would like to share them with you.

  • Instead of putting them away or tossing them, keep cards and well wishes in a small basket where they can be savored throughout the year.  Meditate on the words announcing the coming of the greatest gift that has ever been given.
  • Instead of buying gifts, make donations to your local United Way or charity/charities that are significant in the lives of your loved ones.  Mother Teresa once said, “It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you …Yes it is Christmas every time you smile at your brother and offer your hand.” These gifts keep on giving long after the garland and tinsel are put away!
  • Give handmade gifts this year. 
  • Give your children a Shepherd’s pouch – a simple drawstring bag – in which to collect loose change throughout the month – use the money to purchase a gift for someone in need.  Worship together before setting out to do so.
  • Instead of a tree this year, arrange gifts under a crèche [manger].
  • During a meal together, ask one another, “If Jesus were sitting next to you, what would you give him this Christmas?  Why?”
  • Buy baby items, wrap and place them with the other gifts – donate them to a social service agency that deals with infants.
  • Host a baby Jesus Christmas/birthday party for your family and neighborhood kids.  Have each family bring a gift to be donated to a service agency, or shelter that houses children.
  • Give your children an age-appropriate crèche to play with.  Tell them the Christmas story and have them act it out with the figures.  Remember though, the Wise Men came after the birth of the baby Jesus!
  • Throughout the coming year, have Jesus “grow up” What qualities did he possess?  Pick Bible verses to read and discuss as a family.

Finally, one of the greatest gifts we can give is to be patient and merciful to others.  For “to each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good”. Be the light of Christ to others not only on December 25, but throughout the coming year.  Let others come to know him through your words and deeds.

Christmas blessings!

Debbie Best, Program Coordinator

Diakon Family Life Services Training & Consultation

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