There are three phrases I hear often in our home:
- “Just order it on Amazon, Mom. We’ll get it in a few days.”
- “We can just get another one.”
- “I need more.”
Sound familiar? We aren’t wealthy, but we live in comfort—two cars, a warm home, a fridge and freezer full of food, clean water, and the ability to buy what we want without waiting long. In a world of “need, need, need” and “more, more, more,” teaching gratitude and generosity can feel like swimming upstream.
And then comes Christmas—the season that can magnify the “more” mentality. But Christmas isn’t about getting more; it’s about celebrating the greatest gift ever given: Jesus Christ. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…” (John 3:16). What better time to teach our kids the joy of giving than during the season that began with God’s ultimate act of generosity?
Here’s how we’re making Christmas about giving in our home:
1. We Say No—Even at Christmas
It’s okay for kids not to get everything they want, even under the tree. Saying “no” doesn’t mean we don’t love them; it means we’re teaching them that joy isn’t found in endless stuff. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have…” (Hebrews 13:5). This Christmas, we’re focusing on gifts that matter—not just more toys to pile up.
2. We Talk About Gratitude
Before the wrapping paper flies, we pause. We talk about what we already have and the difference between needs and wants. Christmas is the perfect time to remind ourselves that the greatest gift has already been given—Jesus. “Give thanks in all circumstances…” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). When we slow down and remember, gratitude grows.
3. We Have Intentional Conversations About Giving
The Christmas story is all about giving—God gave His Son for us. We remind our kids that not everyone has what they do. We talk about children around the world who have less and how we can share what we’ve been blessed with. “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35). These conversations help them see that giving is part of following Jesus.
4. We Get Them Involved
This year, we’re using the World Concern Global Gift Guide as part of our Christmas tradition. Our kids scroll through the catalog and choose gifts that change lives—sheep, chickens, clean water, medicine. They see smiling faces and realize these are real kids who need help. The new kid-friendly section makes it easy for them to connect and understand that their choices matter.
Teaching generosity isn’t always easy—especially during a season that screams “buy more.” But with tools like the Global Gift Guide, these conversations become natural. And when your child experiences the joy of giving, Christmas takes on a whole new meaning.
Check out the catalog, start the conversation, and let us know how you’re making giving intentional in your home this Christmas. We’d love to hear your ideas!
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