New! Christmas Devotion—Simplicity

"Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom; in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth without knowing whose it will finally be" (Psalm 39:6).

As a mom of three children, it’s no mistake that this verse was my writing assignment one week out from Christmas. Most parents feel like a “mere phantom” at this point in their preparations! Every year, I want to savor the traditions we find meaningful as a family; still, it sometimes feels like I am quickly checking off boxes of to-do’s.

When I think about the mention of wealth in this Bible verse, it brings a particular holiday preparation to mind—presents. It is a joy to thoughtfully give to the people we love. I cannot escape the fact, however, that there is a growing mound of toys in my basement that have been discarded. Working hard to find, wrap, and give a present that eventually winds up in a corner does feel rather meaningless.

While the commercialism of Christmas is meaningless, the Christ child is not. Over the years, I have given a great deal of thought to how I can simplify Christmas and honor its message. We find ways to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas as a family; we attend worship, read the Christmas story from the Bible, and display a crèche. Our children’s big gifts come from my husband and me, not Santa. We also give to a child or children in need each year through various ministries. 

For families who want to go a step further, I am fond of the three-gift challenge. Just as the wise men brought three symbolic gifts to Jesus, we as parents (or grandparents!) can give three intentional gifts to children also. One gift should bless their mind, like a book, one gift should bless their physical body, like a new pair of shoes or clothes, and one gift should bless their heart, like a coveted toy.

Simplicity is best achieved with intention. That’s what our Bible verse is calling us to consider, and that’s what can help us usher in the true blessing of Christmas. His gift, our best gift, is waiting.

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This devotion was written for my church's Advent devotional. I pray you draw close to your church and allow Jesus to wrap his arms around you through it this Christmas. Merry Christmas!