CS Lewis observed years ago that Christmas had become a commercial enterprise, but you can choose to ignore materialism and joyfully celebrate the birth of our Savior.
Do you join in what CS Lewis called the “merry-making and hospitality” of Christmas or in what he described as the “annual symptom of that lunatic condition…in which everyone lives by persuading everyone else to buy things”? (C S Lewis, What Christmas means to me, God in the dock—Essays on Theology and Ethics)
Focusing on the love of God with gift giving centered around loving others, you can prevent stress and debt. Simply plan ahead, save ahead, and budget ahead.
Make your list and check it twice to prevent distractions and loss of time.
Accurately budget what you can spend. Then, use cash, a debit card or pay all items you put on your credit card at your first billing.
Research shows people spend over 20% less using cash or a debit card.
Or don’t spend any money. Here are some gift ideas that you can make for very little expense:
Plant bulbs in pots,
Cook treats to give away,
Craft a handmade card,
Chop and deliver firewood,
Pass down family heirlooms.
Make your own gift cards for house cleaning, outside jobs in the garden or around the house, meals, babysitting, chauffeuring kids or teaching skills like knitting, sewing, cooking, gardening, woodworking, photography, driving, or car maintenance.
Experiences – rather than things – often give greater satisfaction. So, cook together, go to
Don’t forget to budget for holiday meals and involve your guests by inviting them to bring a dish.
A little planning and creativity can make this holiday one you will long remember!
In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. (1 John 4:9)
More articles to inspire you:
Christmas – Celebrate Jesus
Merging Christmas traditions
New Year resolutions
Why understanding your money philosophy could save your marriage.
