Humility during the Holidays

As we find ourselves in the midst of the chaos of the holiday season that is upon us, it's good to take a step back and reflect.  

Are we caught up in the "what I want" mentality of the season? Or are we looking for ways to serve others with a joyful heart?

Philippians 2 reminds us that we are to have an attitude of humility, even during the holidays. Are we being Christ to those around us in the store? Or are we too worried about making sure that "perfect" gift ends up in our cart?

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus... {Philippians 2.3-5, NASB}

In this passage, Paul exhorts his readers to have "humility of mind" (verse 3) and to "regard one another as more important than yourselves" (verse 3). Are we viewing the person in line in front of us with 100+ items as more important than ourselves? Or are we impatient, complaining internally that they are taking too long?

Are we more worried about our own Christmas lists than we are about the Christmas lists of those less fortunate than ourselves?

My kids and I re-read The King's Christmas List yesterday, and I was once again struck by the end of the book:

Anyone who desires to give Me a gift, behold!
Give food to the hungry and clothes to the cold,
Give care to the poor, both young and old,
Whatever gift you've given to a person in need,
Is indeed a gift you have given to Me.

What gifts are you giving to the King this year on His birthday? 

 How are you focusing on humility during the holidays? 

Home for the Holidays

We've started a tradition in our family to celebrate Jesus' birthday each Christmas with a birthday party the Wednesday night before Christmas (this is a continuation from when I was a child). I want our family to do something more this year - to give a gift worthy of the Recipient.

I want my children to grow up with an attitude of humility, even during the holidays.

We will be collecting loose change and larger donations throughout the month for a homeless shelter our church is helping to start here in our town. We want to provide a place of warmth for those less fortunate than ourselves. If you'd like to join us in this effort, you can click on the "Donate" cup at the very bottom of the blog. 

100% of all donations received in December will be given towards the start-up costs for this shelter.