Christmas is about giving, not getting—but boy, is that easy to forget! In the rush of Christmas activities, the holiday seems to last just long enough to open presents. On today’s Home School Heartbeat, Mike Smith has ideas for helping your kids see what Christmas is really all about!
Mike Smith:
Advent provides more than just a time for remembering Christ’s nativity—it also creates space to anticipate Christ’s second coming. This is a time for giving generously to others, as we look forward in hope to when peace reigns on the earth. Why not turn giving into a family affair?
Advent might be the time for some family fundraising. If you set up a jar four weeks before Christmas for a special cause, each family member can have a goal of making at least one donation a week. Or do something that involves the whole family serving as a team, such as a community coat drive or Angel Tree.
As you plan the Advent season, you may find it helpful to schedule one giving activity per week. One simple way to do this is to add a component of service to Christmas traditions. For example, if you like to hold a cookie-baking day with friends, schedule a visit to a nearby retirement home afterward to share what you have made. Or, instead of sending out your usual standard Christmas cards to everyone you know, make a list of people who are lonely or hurting. Then, take the time to write a personal Christmas card to each one. Your family can help with this activity—even the youngest can sign their names or draw a picture.
“Traditions with a twist” can help you share the blessings of the season with those around you. Until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
