THE JOY OF GIVING
reason why some
celebrate Christmas.
As Jesus stated, giving makes both the giver and the
receiver happy. In pursuit of that happiness, many view gift-giving as one of
the most important features of Christmas. Even during last year’s economic
crisis, one survey found, for example, that in Ireland, each household expected
to spend over 500 euros (about $660 U.S.) on Christmas gifts.
WHY IS IT A
CHALLENGE?
Many feel that Christmas gift-giving brings more stress, not
more happiness. How so? A lot of shoppers feel compelled to buy gifts that they
cannot afford. And since everyone is shopping for gifts at the same time,
crowds and long lines make shopping an exasperating experience for many.
WHAT BIBLE PRINCIPLES
CAN HELP?
“Practice giving,” said Jesus. * (Luke 6:38) He did not
limit gift-giving to a certain time of the year when people would be expected
to give. Jesus urged his followers to make
Spontaneous gift-giving a practice, a way of life.
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