An evergreen stands tall and brightly decorated in the corner. Twinkle lights add sparkle to the windows, stockings hang from the fireplace mantel, and carols play in the background throughout the day. The scent of cinnamon, fudge, and cookies lures us to the kitchen. As gifts are purchased and wrapped, colorful boxes begin to fill in the empty spaces beneath the Christmas tree branches. Yet for all the beauty and fun anticipation of the season, our kids need more than the store has to offer. We’re praying to give what our children really want for Christmas.

A Silent Night

Our children need time to be quiet, rest, and slow down their crazy pace. Relief from the demands of homework, appointments, and practices. A night with no alarm set for another early morning. Fuzzy pj’s, stuffed animals snuggled up beside them, and nowhere they have to be. In the hurry of this season we can silence our devices, gather close, and help our kids rediscover the peace that comes from stillness.

Comfort and Joy

Our sons and daughters need a break from the social drama at school. Some extra hugs and reassurance that they’re loved and liked no matter what the current gossip may say. A warm feeling of being included in the heart of our home after feeling left out and alone in the world. They need a quiet moment that gives space to share personal hurts, worries, and disappointments. Let’s hold out the gift of grace that says You’re forgiven. You’re enough. You are loved no matter what.

Packages and Bows

Instead of more and more stuff, our kids want a gift just for them. Something unique that represents their individual interests and passions. A present that shows they’re truly seen, heard, and known through and through. It’s not about spending a lot of money or cramming boxes beneath the tree—it’s about celebrating and honoring who they are and the people they’re becoming.

Joy to the World

Children have a beautiful spirit of caring for others. Create opportunities for your kids to share time and material blessings with those who struggle during the holidays. Serve at a shelter, wrap gifts for foster kids, or bake cookies for a shut-in neighbor. Send Christmas greetings through homemade cards and crafts. Allow the focus to turn outward, to bring joy to a broken world.

Glad Tidings

Every kid has faced bad news or tough days that throw them into doubt and confusion. In the midst of the stress, our sons and daughters need to hear the good news of Jesus’ love. He will keep his promise to return and make everything new. He’ll meet our kids’ fear and pain with peace and hope for tomorrow. Make time to worship and remember Emmanuel, our God with us.

This Christmas, we pray to give love to our children that looks like Jesus’ love for us. Can you imagine a more priceless, beautiful gift? May you and your family have a truly joyful and blessed celebration together.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing
in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.

Even before he made the world,
God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy
and without fault in his eyes.

God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family
by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ.
This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out
on us who belong to his dear Son.
(Ephesians 1:3-6)