December 6th: The Jesus Gift Box

Now that Advent Season has begun, take the time to sit down together as a family and make a "Jesus Gift Box." You can use a shoe box or a tissue box...any small box will work. Wrap it up like a present and cut a small slit in the top of the box. During this month, take time to pray about what you want to give Jesus in honor of His birth. Throughout the month, jot down your gifts on a small piece of paper and place them inside the box. Every family member should participate (unless they are too little to understand, of course!). On Christmas Eve, place the box under the tree and wait to open it on Christmas morning. Before you open your gifts, spend time reading the Christmas story, praying and thanking God for the gift of His Son and then take turns reaching into the gift box to share what the Lord has laid on your hearts to give Jesus this Christmas. A gift to Him might be a promise not to be disrespectful to parents, a dedication to attend church more regularly, repentance toward unspoken sin, or maybe just a note of thanks, expressing a grateful heart for the ways He has blessed you this past year. Whatever it is, give it to Jesus as an offering from your heart. He will be honored, and your family will be blessed.

"Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." ~ Ephesians 5:1-2