1) Give God one very special gift just from you to Him:
Let this gift be something personal, that no one else need know about, and let it be a sacrifice. David said in 2 Samuel 24 that he would not offer a sacrifice to God that cost him nothing.

Maybe your gift to God will be to forgive someone you've needed to forgive for a long time. You may discover a gift you give back to yourself.

Perhaps your gift will be to commit to spending time with God daily. Or maybe there is something God has asked you to give up, like last New Year's resolution. Make this your most important gift of the season.

2) Set aside a special time to read the Christmas story in Luke 1:5-56; 2:1-20:

Consider reading this account with your family and discussing it together.

• More Christmas Bible Verses
The Birth of Jesus
Matthew 1:18-25
Luke 2:1-14

The Visit of the Shepherds
Luke 2:15-20

The Visit of the Magi (Wise Men)
Luke 2:15-20
Matthew 2:1-12

Peace on Earth
Luke 2:14

Peace with God
Romans 5:1

Immanuel
Romans 5:1
Matthew 1:23

The Birth of Jesus Foretold
Isaiah 40:1-11
Luke 1:26-38

Mary Visits Elizabeth
Luke 1:39-45

Mary's Song
Luke 1:46-55

Zechariah's Song
Luke 1:67-79

3) Set up a Nativity scene in your home:

If you don't have a Nativity, here are ideas to help you make your own Nativity scene:

• Nativity Related Crafts
• How to Make a Nativity Scene

4) Plan a project of good will this Christmas:

Do you have an elderly neighbor in need of home repairs or yard work? Find someone with a genuine need, involve your whole family and see how happy you can make someone this Christmas.

• Top 5 Charity Projects
Operation Christmas Child
Angel Tree
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Toys For Tots
MyTwoFrontTeeth.org

5) Take a group Christmas caroling in a nursing home or a children's hospital:

One year the staff at the office where I worked decided to incorporate Christmas caroling at a nearby nursing home into our yearly staff Christmas party plans. We all met first at the nursing home and toured the facility while singing Christmas carols. Afterwards, we headed back to our party with our hearts full of tenderness. It was the best staff Christmas party we'd ever had.

6) Give a surprise gift of service to each member of your family:

Jesus taught us to serve by washing the disciples feet. He also taught us that it is "more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35 (NIV) The idea of giving an unexpected gift of service to members of your family is to demonstrate Christ-like love and service. You might consider giving a back rub to your spouse, running an errand for your brother, or cleaning out a closet for your mother. Make it personal and meaningful and watch the blessings multiply.

7) Set aside a time of family devotions on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning:

Before opening the gifts, take a few minutes to gather together as a family in prayer and devotions. Read a few Bible verses and discuss as a family the true meaning of Christmas.
• Christmas Prayers, Poems, Stories & Carols.

8) Attend a Christmas church service together with your family:

If you are alone this Christmas or don't have family living near you, invite a friend or a neighbor to join you. If you have no one remember, God is with you. Take Communion in your home.

9) Send Christmas cards that convey a spiritual message:

This is an easy way to share your faith at Christmas time. If you've already bought the reindeer cards -- no problem! Just write a Bible verse and include a personal message with each card.