Even as young children, we learn the importance of giving to others. Throughout our lives, we give gifts at Christmas, birthdays, weddings and other times. Have we ever stopped to ask, "What is a gift?" Everyone knows the answer. Or do we? If it were an easy question with an easy answer, we wouldn't need a resource such as this.

It seems almost contradictory to say that giving a gift is hard or challenging or demanding, but that may be our experience. It is difficult to make the process of choosing gifts and giving gifts consistent with our faith. Because living our faith is challenging and demanding, giving gifts that come from our faith - from whatever depth, breadth and authenticity our faith has - is also challenging.

Giving is at the heart of Christmas! We remember God's great gift by giving to others. Given human nature and the commercialization of Christmas, "getting" sometimes seems more prominent than giving, and giving to "our own" sometimes has more importance than giving to the one whose birthday we celebrate. It doesn't have to be that way. We can give in a way that honors the birth of Christ, expresses our love to our family and friends, and our concern for the earth.

The suggestions in this pamphlet are designed to assist individuals, families or groups who want to be more intentional in their giving. They are intended to be suggestive, not inclusive. In the end, it is you who must set the guidelines for your giving.

Making small changes and finding some new answers, or even some new questions, can bring new meaning into your Advent and Christmas celebrations. Welcome the questions! Welcome the reflection! Welcome the gifts of God!