Let's face it. As much as we try during Advent to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus, there is plenty to distract us. Christmas isn't far away, and with it comes expectations of something really special (besides Jesus, that is!). That might be a hoped-for gift beneath the tree, of course. But it's often something priceless, like a visit from a distant relative, a hug from Grandpa, the smell of cookies baking, or a favorite ornament hanging on the tree. Whatever the gift or blessing, it usually bears some connection to a special person. Even if a loved one has died in the past year or during a previous Christmas season, the holidays present an opportunity for hope, healing and grateful remembrance.
Christmas and the end of the calendar year present opportunities to reflect on the blessings and challenges we've experienced. In doing so, we might recognize how others have sacrificed for us and shown us new ways to live and love authentically. If we dig deeper, we can discover how their love reflects God’s love for us. If we reflect well, we're likely to respond with true gratitude.
As students enter the classroom, make a point of holding open the door for each student and greeting them by name, with a smile.
Pick up some paper wads or other litter (which you’ve placed on the floor prior to class) and put them in the wastebasket or recycling bin. "Accidentally" turn off the lights, then, after a few seconds, turn them back on.
Ask students to list at least five gifts you've given them since they arrived today (access to the room, acknowledgment by name, a smile, a cleaner learning space and electricity/light).
Begin by saying: "Can anyone put a price on any of these gifts? Most everything was free. Maybe we can put a price on the electricity, or the lights or even the building that we’re in."
Observe whether anyone has thanked you at this point for any of your kindnesses. Then ask: "What do my actions, the electricity and the building have in common?" Give students time to guess answers and affirm their responses.
Then say: "Everything we're talking about happens because people care. Whether it's me or the person who pays the electricity bill or the people who donated to build this space, they all care about you and what happens here. It's easy, especially as Christmas approaches, to think that gifts only come with bows and wrapping paper. It's important to slow down and consider some of the gifts we might take for granted and the priceless motivation – things like love and caring – behind them."
Conclude by asking students to share about the greatest priceless gift they've received at Christmas. Take as many responses as time allows. Follow up with each student by asking how they expressed their gratitude.
Jesus, you were the first and best Christmas gift.
Your love grows every year as we share it with others.
Let us never take your love for granted,
whether we know it through your sacrifice on the cross,
or just a hug or a warm plate of cookies from our Grandma.
Let us respond to the ways we come to know your love
with loving gratitude at Christmas and throughout our lives.
Amen.
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