The example of the spirit of giving all year long

What do you WANT for Christmas?” Yes, that is the question most frequently asked this time of year. Christmas is upon us and we are checking our list twice to make sure we have the perfect gift for everyone on our list. 
The tradition of giving and receiving gifts at Christmas reminds us of the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh given to Jesus by the three Kings. However, before the three Kings, who was the first ever gift giver? God! 
God gave us everything. He created the earth, moon and stars. He filled the earth with plants and animals and all the beauty of creation. He created each one of us and gave us each our own unique gifts and talents. Most importantly, He gave us, his Son, Jesus Christ. 
Since God is the perfect example of Christian Stewardship, shouldn’t we focus on Giving rather than Wants. A good friend onece asked me, “What are you GIVING this Christmas?” This simple twist on the typical question, makes all the difference in how we embrace a spirit of joyful giving. St. Paul tells us in his second letter to the Corinthians that “…God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). 
Reflecting on what we are giving rather than our wants or needs also helps us answer God’s call to give generously, not just at Christmas but all the time. The Bible tells us, “When you give, give generously and not with a stingy heart; for that, the Lord, your God, will bless you in all your works and undertakings” (Deuteronomy 15:10). 
Since stewardship is returning a portion of our gifts to God, a good Christian Steward is an example of the spirit of giving all year long. 
I hope we all embrace a spirit of giving this Christmas keeping Christ at the center. With each gift you give, do it with joy and generosity and as you wrap each gift, say a little prayer for the recipient of that gift.  
­­— Shannon Roh is the Executive Director of the Office of Development and Stewardship for the Archdiocese of Mobile.