Service Gifts for Christmas

Several years ago when we were living in Australia, we started a new Christmas tradition.  Instead of buying gifts to place under the Christmas tree, we decided to create gifts of service for one another.  Everyone in the family wrote items of service on a card and then wrapped it in beautiful paper and taped it to a decorative piece of cardboard.  On Christmas, we took turns opening the gifts of service.  Some items included things like “I will clean your room for you” or I will bake your favorite cookies.

Throughout the years we have continued our gifts of service.  Instead of placing them on a piece of cardboard, we now place them inside gift boxes (one box for each family member).    We start thinking of ideas around Thanksgiving.

Sometimes we plan an hour after dinner where the supplies are in place and everyone can sit around the table writing their special messages of service.  When the kids were young, we helped them write their messages.

We place the messages inside of the boxes until the time we open them which is usually on Christmas day.  Sometimes we wait until January to open them.  It is always fun to see all of the great ideas.

I love this tradition because it helps us slow down and remember the true meaning of Christmas and the holiday season.  It also helps us remember to serve one another every day of the year.