by Pamela Kay

Created on: November 09, 2008   Last Updated: December 20, 2008

We are given an example of Christmas gift ideas that stay true to the origin of Christmas, in the first Christmas gift ever given. On that first Christmas Day, God gave us his precious Son and in essence, he gave of Himself.

Each year, as we are caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday shopping, preparations and parties, there is less time for us to give of ourselves. We so over-extend ourselves, that there is often little left of us to give to others. Here are a few ideas for changing this.

1-Simplify Your Shopping

Make your Christmas shopping list early and keep it simple. You can shop year round if you buy simple gifts such as books, jewelry, sporting and camping equipment and craft kits. You can also create a one gift fits all by making a Family Tree book for each member of the family. For friends and work associates buy several Yearly Planning Journals. The real gift will be more time to spend with others.

2-Give Someone The Christmas Story

It may be hard to believe that there is anyone who doesn't know the true Christmas story, but there are many who have never heard it. Create one-page flyer's with the scripture from Matthew and Luke or write it in your own words. Use clip art to decorate the page and print several of them. Leave them in places such as waiting rooms and Laundromats where people have time to read.

3-Make Your Christmas Gifts

Use whatever skill or craft you have been blessed with and make your Christmas gifts throughout the year. For example, sewing, knitting, quilting and embroidery can yield lovely gifts and computer skills can yield bookmarks, small books, photo mats and scrap booking pages. Use your imagination and enjoy giving of yourself and creating special gifts for those you love.

4-Adopt A Family

Find a family in need through your church and help them celebrate Christmas. Take them shopping or help them make Christmas gifts. Provide them with the makings of a fine Christmas dinner or help them decorate. Share the true meaning of Christmas by continuing to help and mentor them for the next year.

5-Give The Gift Of Time

Get out on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and give of yourself to those who are homebound or in a nursing home or hospital. Many elderly people have no family to visit them at Christmas. Their loneliness can be chased away by a simple, thoughtful person who takes the time to visit with them and share the wonder of Christmas. Give them a phone card so they can call their family or give them a Bible if they don't have one and then go back to see them as often as you can.

It isn't necessary to give lavish gifts to make the recipient happy. Giving of yourself is always the most appreciated gift. Your thoughtfulness and time will show your love and in the end, isn't that why we give gifts at Christmas.

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