Wrapping Up the Holiday: Get Organized
Exchanging gifts reminds us of God’s Greatest Gift, Jesus Christ. The wise men travelled far to deliver gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the Christ Child. They each had one present to think about.
Most Christmas lists are l-o-n-g! And getting those gifts organized can be stressful. Here are a few ways to alleviate the stress.
5 Tips to Relieve Stress and Get Organized for Christmas
- Make a comprehensive list. Who is on your gift list? How much do you intend to spend on each person? What gifts can you give that do not involve money; a sledding party with the cousins, cookie baking with the neighborhood kids, helping Grandma organize her photos? The best gifts are often not in boxes and bags.
- Make faith building gifts part of the tradition. Give Bibles, devotionals, journals, children’s books, and Christian novels to family and friends to encourage their journey with the Lord. Download
- Inventory the gift wrap and accessories. Do you have enough paper, ribbon, bows, gift tags, and shipping supplies? Get the kiddos involved too. They can color, sign, and tie on gift tags. Download gift tags here!
- Consult the calendar. Are there celebrations throughout the month or will the gifts be exchanged on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day? Do the gifts need to be shipped? Are hostess gifts purchased for holiday parties? Is additional time needed to order specialty items or bake that favorite treat?
- Start now. Getting things in order at the beginning of Advent can help to keep the stress level down. Take the time to get prepared and enjoy this beautiful time of year!
On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary,
and they bowed down and worshiped him.
Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts
of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Matthew 2:11
Download Anticipating Immanuel: An Advent Interactive Guide for the Family from the 1 Corinthians 13 Parenting Team! The 1 Corinthians 13 Parenting Ministry provides expert faith-filled information and heartfelt encouragement for parents and ministry leaders. Book a workshop or retreat for your church or parent group.
© 2013 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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