One of the many things we ponder during the season of Christmas is relationships. We celebrate God’s relationship with us in Jesus. Immanuel, God is with us. Immanuel, God is still speaking. Immanuel, God is surprising us. Immanuel, God is providing.

God’s example of relationship is a perfect model for us as we live in relationship with each other. Just as God is with us, so we are called to be present in each other’s lives. The opportunities to connect are abundant and God has promised to be with us as we speak, surprise, and provide for our neighbors.

If you have the gift of words, use those words to connect with others.
Create an original poem and deliver it to a neighbor.
Leave a note of thanks on the pillow of someone in your family.
Pray for people in the news.
Call or make a video connection with a friend or someone you miss.

If your gifts revolve around food, use your gift to feed your neighbor’s tummy (and spirit!).
Drop off a loaf of apple bread to someone in your faith community who is experiencing loss.
Deliver a meal to a family with a new baby.
Offer to do the grocery shopping for someone who can’t drive.
Leave a candy bar in the mailbox for your mail carrier.

Encourage kids to get in on this, too! If your gifts are held together with glue and sprinkled with glitter, use your gift of artwork to brighten someone’s day.
Make a Christmas tree ornament for your piano teacher (or any other teacher!).
Mold pipe cleaner napkin holders for each place setting at your family’s table.
Construct magnetic mini-banners out of felt that can be hung on your grandparent’s refrigerator.
Design bookmarks to give away to everyone you know who loves to read.

If your gift is hanging out and helping out, give LOVE coupons that gift others with your time and service:
a coupon for one car wash,
a coupon offering help with folding and putting away laundry,
a coupon for reading books to a younger sibling,
a coupon for organizing a night of games and snacks for the whole family.

Welcome to another Christmas season that invites us to explore the many ways we can connect with and encourage those around us. As the year draws to a close, may you ponder God’s gift of relationships. Then pay attention to the many ways that God’s spirit nudges you to share yourself and your God-given gifts with others.