Beyond the Christmas tree, decorations and music, lies a world without much hope. Some have no place to call home. Others are forced to beg for spare change so they can eat. Meanwhile, a growing number of families are in survival mode, living pay check to pay check. Perhaps a Christmas without gifts may ease their burdens.
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold, Proverbs 22:1.
When children reach a certain age depending upon one’s maturity, Christmas lists tend to shrink. Once you accumulate almost everything necessary in life, what else do you really need? Those who are goal oriented or self-sufficient usually purchase what they truly desire anyway. Thus, is it worth going into debt to spoil those whom you love with gifts you can’t afford? Maybe, next year individuals will begin to break free from the commercialization of this season to celebrate a Christmas without gifts.
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others, Philippians 2:3-4.
I’m not going Christmas with the Kranks on you. Rather, I’m just throwing out an idea which might relieve the stress of Christmas. Some of my favorite Christmas memories are from the two years my family skipped presents to go on trips. One Christmas we spent a few days in the Bahamas; the other skiing in the Rocky mountains. Every family develops and maintains holiday traditions. Yet, one of my favorites is interacting with family during a Christmas without gifts.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 