Last Updated on March 11, 2024
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (ESV)
Here are some ideas our family has used to keep the focus on Christ and giving.
Give out free treats.
Do Operation Christmas Child
Have a bake sale
This year we’re also planning a bake sale! My kids have often sold baked goods, largely made by mom, to finance their latest toy wish or go to camp. Sometimes they set up a table at the end of the street to sell lemonade and cookies. This year we’ll be selling to raise money for orphans in Uganda. If inflation has touched you this year, imagine the effects on the precious men and women who are caring for orphans around the world. We personally love to support Light For Oprhans Ministry. You can learn how to give on their website. Sharon, who runs the organization, even sent back a video from the orphans she and her husband care for thanking my children for their gift!
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Those are just a few ideas that have helped our family to remember the meaning of Christmas.
Christmas is when God gave us His greatest gift – His Son Jesus. He is the one who made a way for us to receive eternal forgiveness for our sins and a promised home in heaven.
I think it’s important that we remind ourselves and nudge our children’s hearts towards gratitude, helping them develop an awareness of those who are less fortunate.
My pastor told us, “We are never more like Jesus than when we give.” Providing our children the opportunity to give is one of the greatest gifts we can give to them. So why not start a family tradition of service and giving this year? I bet you’ll be glad you did!
Sarah Shoe is learning to love Jesus instead of only following a checklist of Christian rules. She married her junior high crush over twenty years ago. Sarah is passionate about mothers and encouraging them in their high and godly calling, which often includes hard days. She daily lives this high calling as a full-time mom to eight children: ½ dozen boys and two girls! You can find her wiping bottoms, placing Wal-Mart pick-up orders, settling arguments, teaching math, always reading, finding bargains, and making so much food. She encourages herself that there will be no laundry in heaven! Sarah would love for you to join her Instagram friends where she shares her life and what God is teaching her.