Advent Conspiracy: Give More

Corey —  December 14, 2010

       So far, I have discussed the first two concepts behind Advent ConspiracyWorship Fully and Spend Less. Today, we’re going to look at the third concept – Give More. Here’s the Advent Conspiracy video in case you missed it:

Give More

       When you choose to Spend Less, the idea isn’t that you don’t give anything at all. The goal is for you to Give More. Instead of buying something that doesn’t really let someone know you care about them, you give them something more – more valuable and more meaningful – like your time.

       Christmas should be a time to love our family, friends, and even our enemies in the most memorable ways possible. But what do you remember most from Christmas as a kid? Was it the presents? Or was it the time spent making memories with your family and friends?

       The best memories we have of Christmas are the times spent deepening our relationships with each other. So after you decide to Spend Less, choose to Give More by giving your time.

       Give your time by making a special gift that will be cherished for years to come. Or give your time by writing a letter of appreciation, encouragement, or just to keep in touch. You can give time by taking your kids sledding or going ice skating with your friends. Or take time to bake some really good cookies.

       When you Give More of your time, you’re making your love visible to others. You’re creating memories that both of you will fondly remember many years down the road. You’re choosing to make Christmas less about buying gifts and more about giving love.

       That’s what God did when He sent His Son to us. He was giving His love to us because He wanted a relationship with us. And that’s why we are drawn to the idea that Christmas should be a time to love our friends and family in the most memorable ways possible. God gave us the Greatest Gift not by going to the mall and buying lots of Stuff but by giving us a Way to have a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Him.

       So follow God’s example this Christmas season and Give More. Give presence!

Corey

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Corey is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in religion. While he enjoys learning and writing about Christianity, another one of his new passions is writing about personal finances in order to help others make wise decisions with their money.

2 responses to Advent Conspiracy: Give More

  1. Paul,
    Thanks for reminding me of this video. I posted it last year on my blog. Due to my second child enrolling in daycare, this upcoming year is going to be the hardest year so far to date for me to give. There are two things that make me a little nauseous this year. One, is writing that extra amount to daycare each month, and two, a budget that permits me to give less than the year before.

    – jared

  2. You’re welcome, Jared. I think the ideas they’re trying to spread are great and look more like the Christmas celebration I would imagine Jesus would want from us. I pray God will show you ways to give more even with your more restricted budget this year. It’s about much more than money! :)