The message of Christmas is also about giving. How God gave His only Son for us. The practice of giving and receiving gifts is a reminder of that sacrifice. The overt commercial message we experience from advertisers, and in the market place, overlooks this simple idea. Reading the Greatest Story Ever Told at Christmas also reminds us what true giving is. Try to make the most of any time away from work, or your usual daily demands, and give an important message to your family. Above and beyond the cost of gifts, the rushing around, the excitement, is how much they mean to you. Make sure you give of yourself this Christmas.
One way you could do this is by giving your time. Stop all the hectic activity and read to them. There are many beautifully illustrated picture bibles and Christmas picture books. Such a book would make an excellent investment to use year after year. Younger kids will love lots of colourful pictures. Older kids will enjoy these to, but may prefer more text or actual story. Allow more confident readers to join in the story, perhaps they could read a page or a paragraph. Siblings could even take turns to read. Add interactive roles for everyone to make it lots of fun. Wear props and use sound effects to heighten their enjoyment. It could become a wonderful Christmas tradition in your family. You could also tell them your Christmas stories, the things you remember from your childhood. You'll probably find it's not the gifts you recall.
Books are terrific gifts to give at Christmas. There are such a wide variety available, suitable for any age. Stick with things you know they love for themes and subject matter. It will show you've thought about them. You should be able to make a good selection from the many books available. It's often easier to do this for younger kids. This is where vouchers from book stores come in handy. Gift certificates are also great when it comes to mailing gifts to older children who are far away. With modern technology giving books is even easier. Okay, a book ordered from an on-line bookstore today might not make it in time for Christmas Day, but it won't be too far behind.
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