The season of Christmas is very dear to the hearts of Christians. It is the season in which we celebrate the birth of the child Jesus who is named Savior, Emmanuel, Christ, and Lord. We celebrate the fact that this child, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger, is the Incarnate Son of God, the gift of God’s very presence. It is, indeed, a time to rejoice and to give thanks and praise.
As part of the story of Jesus’ birth shared in the Gospels, I am always struck by the different accounts of those who came to visit Jesus in Bethlehem. In Matthew (2:1-12), the visitors were Magi who came to give Jesus homage and gift him with their treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In Luke (2:1-20), however, the visitors were shepherds who visited Jesus because they received a message from the angel of the Lord. No mention is made of the shepherds bringing any gifts other than their presence and the good news they received from the angel.
These two different accounts seem, in my mind, to mirror the balance of gift-giving that might best celebrate the Christmas season. While we are taking time to put careful thought and consideration into the purchased or homemade gifts we will share this season, may we also put the same care and consideration into how we might best offer the simple gift of our presence and the invaluable gift of good news to another.
We are reminded of our call to be light-bearers and gift-givers to the world during this incredible season of light. As we celebrate the Christmas gift of Jesus, may we recall that our own gifts are meant to be shared, not only during this season but throughout the year.
Here are some ideas for enriching the Christmas season when working with others:
• Use the liturgical-season lessons in your religious education texts and/or online sessions for the various feasts and celebrations of the Christmas season.
• Explore the saints of the season and emphasize how they shared their gifts with others.
• Invite parents and family members to incorporate activities and discussions with their family that can enrich the season.
• Choose an online liturgical-year activity and incorporate it into the learning setting or encourage its use within the home.
• Invite learners to create a list of the gifts they have and how they might best share those with others.
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