A Twist on Holiday Giving

Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
—1 TIMOTHY 6:18

Living on mission doesn’t have to be complicated. Each day is filled with ordinary opportunities to love and serve those around us. But the holidays are also a great opportunity for our families to have an impact on the world in simple, tangible ways.

I love what my in-laws used to do every Christmas. Instead of buying presents for one another, each family member would donate a certain amount of money. Then they would give it to a family, a widow, a college student, or a neighbor—someone they knew who was in need. This was a practical and powerful way for their family to share the love of Christ with others around the holidays.

Our world is full of opportunities for us to do good, and we are commanded “to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” The holidays are a great time of the year to intentionally reach out to friends, coworkers, neighbors, or someone from church who is in need. We don’t have to travel the globe to have an impact on the world. Hurting people all around us are waiting to hear about the God who loves them and to experience the hope of Christ.

Think about what good you and your family can do together. Is there something you can do without so that you can help someone else? Get creative. Be generous. Do good. And just see what God does with one simple act of obedience!

Father, You have given me far more than I deserve. Thank You for Your rich blessings in my life. You have saved me, forgiven me, and given me hope and peace. You have been so generous to me. Help me see my world differently. Give our family an opportunity to do good, be generous, and show Your love in a practical and tangible way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

What is one idea you have to bless someone else over the next holiday? What can you begin doing without right now in order to be generous to someone else? I’d love to hear!

Excerpted with permission from The Better Mom Devotional by Ruth Schwenk, copyright Ruth Schwenk.