Christmas, A Time to Teach Generosity

Trying to keep Christ in the center of your thoughts at Christmas can be a real challenge. For many of us, our minds naturally focus on the stressors of family, food, decorations, Christmas cards, shopping, and the like. If you have kids, things are complicated even more.

Here are some great thoughts by Turansky and Miller of the National Center for Biblical Parenting on the subject:

Christmas is a highlight in the life of most children, but much of the benefit is focused on what they get. Of course one of the blessings of Christmas is giving, so look for ways to teach children generosity this year. Here are some ideas:

Involves kids in your gift giving strategy or help them develop their own. Planning, shopping, and wrapping can each provide ways for children to think about blessing others.

Anticipate with your children the delight others will experience when the gifts are opened. Help your child enjoy the fun others will have when receiving gifts.

Ask children the question: "What are you doing this year to make Christmas special for others?" This question alone can help teens think of others instead of just themselves. A short discussion can help move kids from selfish tendencies to generosity.

And most importantly, remind children of the generosity of God by sending us a special gift in his Son.

For more ideas on addressing heart issues in your kids, consider the book, Parenting is Heart Work by Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN.

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