What is the best way to thank God for the gift of Jesus? While spoken words are significant, tangible actions can also convey appreciation. After all, isn’t it true actions speak louder than words?
A cherished Christmas tradition in my family is our Jesus stocking, a unique decoration filled not with trinkets but with notes listing the loving deeds we’ve performed for others during the season. My grown children no longer live at home, and I miss opening the papers; my children had slipped so neatly inside the stock. You can view a picture of our Jesus stocking here.
However, glimpsing the stocking on the mantle is a poignant reminder that Christmas is about Jesus – a time to slow down and prioritize connections with others.
Admittedly, it’s easy to let Christmas become about everything else but Jesus. I’ve been guilty of this distraction. A visual cue, like our Jesus stocking, helps anchor my focus on the true meaning of the season and the precious gift of Jesus – a testament to God’s profound love as expressed in John 3:16.
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Don’t you want to thank God?
One of the most meaningful ways to thank God is by intentionally loving His people. #IntentionalChristmasLove #mareedee #ThankyouGod Click To TweetWe can stop and love His people no matter what is on our list of things to do or how uncomfortable we may feel. Plus, remember, loving isn’t about who deserves our care. After all, did we deserve Jesus?
As Barbara Harper wisely notes—“Godly love is about giving without expecting reciprocation, emphasizing the importance of reaching out even to those who may not remember our efforts.” Karen Friday lets us in on a gift we can give, which is not bought with money. This present can be one of the most significant contributions you can give someone. Find out how to give the gift of encouragement.
Let’s not forget Jesus’ command in John 13:34 to love one another as He loved us; the focus is on selfless, genuine care.
"I give you a new command: Love each other. You must love each other as I have loved you." John 13:34 ICB
We’re eager to hear your thoughts. What have you found the best way to thank God this season?
Intentional Christmas Love
We did a lot of thanking God around the Christmas dinner table yesterday! It was lovely! The food. The company. The God we serve. Being able to host families outside of blood relatives. <— All so very lovely!
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Thanks for linking up at InstaEncouragements!
I love the thanksgiving around the table. It is one of my favorite things to do. Thank you for sharing.
I love that stocking idea so much! Wish i had thought of it. And glad you shared.
I imagine we really could apply the Jesus stocking idea all year. Wishing you a Merry Christmas – Maree
What a great idea. A Jesus stocking. But not an empty one, but one filled with ways you showed the love of Jesus to others. Love it. Thanks.
I think the idea of having a Jesus stocking and recording the gifts we give Him throughout the year is a sweet one. Thanks for this tip.
You are so welcome. I love our Jesus stocking. It was fun to share. Maree
Beautiful features, and your Jesus stocking is a wonderful tradition!
Michele – Thank you for stopping by – Merry Christmas – Maree
Thank you for fearturing my article on encouragement, Maree Dee, such an honor. You’re an encouragement to me each week here at Embracing the Unexpected. And I love the Jesus stocking idea, too. Merry Christmas!
Karen – Thank you for your sweet encouragement. I loved your post. Merry Christmas – Maree
What a wonderful way to thank God for the gift of His son, Jesus! I love the idea of a Jesus stocking. Merry Christmas, Maree!
My daughter is on her way over right now, and I can’t wait here what she has to put in our Jesus stocking. Thank you for commenting. Blessings,
Maree
Thanks so much for featuring my post, Maree! It’s a topic dear to my heart.
I tend to be task-oriented. While things still need to get done, I need constant reminders that life and ministry is about people. Sometimes there is no greater gift than putting everything aside and spending time with someone one on one.
Barbara,
I, too, am task-oriented. I keep telling myself it is all about the people, not the stuff. It is hard to set aside what needs to get done, but oh so worth it.
I loved your article. You gave such great ideas I hope to see you write on the topic again. Blessings, Maree