The holiday season is upon us once again. And Christmas is considered the season of giving. When most people think of giving to others, their first thought is financial. But you don’t have to give dollars and cents to make a difference. Instead, you can give of your time and attention.
3 Simple Ways to Give the Gift of Time
Have more time than money? Here’s how you can give it to others this holiday season.
1. Write notes or cards. Brighten the day of older adults and soldiers through writing notes. Sites like LoveForTheElderly.org or AMillionThanks.org make it easy to share the gift of your time. You can find sample letters and writing suggestions on each of their websites.
2. Lend a listening ear. Maybe your child or spouse had a rough day at school and needs to talk. Perhaps your friend was injured and needs someone to run errands for her. Challenge yourself to be a Good Samaritan to someone in need today.
3. Be fully present. You have probably heard Jim Elliot’s quote, “Wherever you are, be all there!” It sounds simple enough in theory. But how many times have you been caught not really paying attention to a friend or coworker’s conversation? Only to ask, what did you say. With all of our gadgets, it’s easy to be in a room with others but have our thoughts and eyes elsewhere. Set aside uninterrupted time to spend with those you love.
Need gift ideas? Here are 3 that won't cost you a dime Click To TweetWhy Give Your Time
In the Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 we find an example of someone willing to give of their time and attention. While he did give of his financial resources, the Samaritan first gave what other individuals passing by would not – his attention.
When seeing a need, sometimes it’s easy to throw money toward it. But to give of your time and energy requires a different kind of sacrifice.
But giving of ourselves is never wasted. Proverbs 11:25 NIV says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
Prayer for You
Dear God may we see and seize opportunities to refresh others as we go about our day. May we not be so caught up in our to-do lists that we miss helping someone in need.
Your Turn
What other ways have you found to give the gift of your time?
Cheryl says
15 December, 2017 at 12:50 pmSuch a beautiful post, Wanda. So very true…and when we give of ourselves, WE are the ones who really receive. The rewards are never-ending. God bless you this Christmas season!
Wanda says
16 December, 2017 at 5:39 amCheryl that’s an excellent point. It’s like getting a 2 for 1 deal. Appreciate your kind words and always good to hear from you. Hope you and your family enjoying a Merry Christmas.
Pam says
16 December, 2017 at 5:10 amGreat post, Wanda! You really started the wheels turning in my head!
Sometimes those who are home-bound feel like they have nothing to give. My husband always reminds them that others rely on them to be prayer warriors–a wonderful way to give a priceless gift.
I have also found that individuals (the elderly, sick, disabled, or simply frazzled), as well as churches, day cares, and non-profits need willing hands to fold flyers (or laundry), cut out a bazillion paper leaves, sort and bundle supplies, make pick ups, or deliver donations.
Giving doesn’t have to be associated with $$$.
Wanda says
14 February, 2018 at 3:34 pmSo sorry for not seeing this in my spam earlier, Pam. Those are some good suggestions of getting involved in the work of ministry in ways we often overlook.
Barbie says
18 December, 2017 at 10:15 pmSuch beautiful thoughts shared this Christmas season. May you have a blessed and beautiful one.
Wanda says
19 December, 2017 at 5:40 amThanks, Barbie. Hope you and your family enjoy a wonderful Christmas season as well.
Rhapsody says
3 January, 2018 at 5:45 pmBlessings and happy new year.
May joy, love, peace and harmony be your constant.
I believe i give of myself everyday, some day more than others. What i have learnt in the process is balance so i do not get depleted.
Wanda says
20 January, 2018 at 12:05 pmHi Rhapsody, hope 2018 finds you doing well dear. Always a pleasure to see you.