Friday, December 15, 2023

What stresses you out most during the holidays? Is it the seemingly endless calendar obligations or maybe all the baking? Perhaps it’s shopping.

While some love the process of picking out items sure to please, for many of us, long shopping lists coupled with shrinking budgets quickly reveal our inner Scrooge. It has the potential to suck all the joy out of Christmas.

The tradition of gift-giving dates back all the way to when the wise men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus at his birth. But, the desire to give good gifts is actually a trait of our Heavenly Father. God loves to shower his people with blessings (2 Corinthians 9:8). And while every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17), the best gift of all was given by God just over 2000 years ago—when Jesus came to this earth as a babe in a manger to begin his earthly ministry to offer us eternal life.

Giving gifts at Christmas is an opportunity to demonstrate this facet of God the Father and reflect his love and generosity. It’s an opportunity to spread joy and be a blessing. Nonetheless, it can still feel stressful. How can it be redeemed?

First, remember gifts don’t have to be monetary to be meaningful. A gift of service can bring incredible joy to those short on time or who lack the skill. Use your gift of organizing, cooking, fixing cars, sewing, etc. to bless others this holiday season.

Another way to give meaningful gifts is to consider the recipient’s love language. For those who love gifts, finding that perfect item can be extremely meaningful. But for others, there may be no shopping required.

If the receiver’s love language is quality time, invite them over for coffee and conversation. If their heart is warmed by acts of service, make them a nice meal or help them out in some way. If words of affirmation speak to them, write a note or find the perfect card to express how you value them. Tapping into someone’s love language is a powerful way to show how much you care.

This holiday season, shift your focus to the joy of giving as a way to reflect the love of Christ and use the way he has wired you and your loved ones as a guide to reduce stress and bring joy.