It’s beginning…the “I WANT’S” have arrived in our house. The kid’s are making a list of ALL they want for Christmas.
It’s usually whatever they have seen that day either on a commercial, in the store, or in a magazine. We really try and temper, when we can, the images that are inputed into our kid’s brains. But the season brings with it an impossible amount of temptation to spend money and indulge our children.
I love to buy gifts for my kids. But I also cannot and will not buy them everything they want.
We love to surprise them Christmas morning with presents but the presents are not the focus of the next five weeks.
I desire to focus on giving and helping others much more than what we receive.
But when the rubber meets the road, I struggle with carrying this out.
I have good intentions, but I often find myself caught in the middle between “the busyness of the season,” feeling guilty that I’m not “doing more,” and just plain old fear of stepping outside of my comfort zone and interacting with others that are different than me.
Yuck, yuck, yucky thoughts.
When my thoughts are on Him, when I come to Him for perspective, I am overwhelmed with the gift I have been given through Jesus Christ.
From that place of secure, amazing love, I want to pour out the joy of Christmas to others.
So, here, with you, I am laying it out.
I want to have a backwards Christmas. I want to have a Christmas that is so full of giving, scandalous (living beyond my safe faith and comfortable means) type of giving that sweeps my family up with me, riding the coat tails of God’s grace extending the gift to others.
This is why Jesus came, why the family tree of Jesus is so important, why we tell the love story through the Jesse Tree each December–to remember how much we have been given.
“It is more blessed to give than receive.” Acts 20:35
But how?
Well, I’m in progress. Praying, seeking, trusting that He will help me to know HOW to do this.
It could be in some BIG, extravagant way…but I believe most likely it will be in me obeying in all the small opportunities along the way.
Saying “YES” to God when I’m scared or don’t want to.
So, here are some ways we are going to PUT FIRST THINGS FIRST this Christmas…
1. SLOW DOWN
It takes time to stop, still our hearts, and listen to what God is saying to us. This is why we love the Jesse Tree, and the ability it gives us everyday to slow down, focus on what is important, and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
2. PRAY FOR GOD TO USE US
We are praying for God to give us His eyes as we go about our day. Praying that we can SEE people as He does. Who can we love? Who can we minister to? Who can we tangibly be the hands and feet of Jesus to this Christmas?
This has truly been a game changer for me. It’s impossible to stay inwardly focused long when you pray for God to turn your eyes outward. Instead of jumping into my day with a “to do” list, I’m jumping into prayer asking God to show me the hearts and needs of the people I encounter throughout my day.
3. SPEND TIME INTENTIONALLY SEEKING OUT OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE
One of my most favorite “go-to” lists of service opportunities is from Kristen Welch, writer from We are THAT Family, and founder of Mercy House Kenya. She created a list that has so many great ideas of ways to serve others as a family.
If you are stuck, like me at times, just print out this list and pick something to do. Serving alongside my kids has been the best way for them to see how much they have, and to be thankful. It has also given them a glimpse into this BIG WORLD God has created and how it is not about them. So worth it.
4. CHOOSE TO GIVE GIFTS THAT GIVE SOMETHING BACK
There are so many unique, meaningful ways you buy a present to give to others that actually gives back to the maker of that gift. Some of my favorites are Paper for Water, Fair Trade Friday, Compassion International, World Vision, and the list goes on.
I’m actually going to put my faith in action today with you.
I’m going to begin giving excessively right here, right now.
I’m going to giveaway a box of the Jesse Tree Project’s handmade ornaments and devotional to one of you! Here’s a sneak peek:
Will you hope with me? Can we encourage one another to live outside of what the culture portrays Christmas to be and give in excess? Can we rally together to be brave? to be different? I’m praying for ALL of us to say “YES” to Him in whatever ways He may be asking us to this Christmas.
Want to win this darling set of ornaments and our devotional? Just comment below and let me know! Please share with a friend!
GIVEAWAY closes at midnight on Saturday, November 22nd. Hope you win!
Sundee says
Thx for the resources and encouragement!
Brenda says
Cute set!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Brenda for stopping by. Yes–we had plenty of moms that I think are ready for starting a business in crafts! 🙂
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Sundee for reading here! You are an inspiration to me so much. It is a gift to me when you stop by!
Leslie says
Love this!! Such great encouragement. Pick one thing. Be content. Keep asking Him to give us eyes to see the needs around us. Be still with Him. All te things I want to do. And will start today as I head to the wedding. Xoxox
Patti Campbell says
Love! Hoping to start this tradition with my grandchildren; beautiful!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Patti! I have several grandmothers this year making ornaments for their grandchildren. I too hope my set(s) last so my kids can take them when they start a family. Good luck–hope you win, but if not–please join us to make ornaments next year! It’s a lot of fun.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Oh thanks Leslie for always reminding me to say yes in the small things that add up to the BIG thing of loving and obeying God, and making more of Him! Have a fabulous time at the wedding. Can’t wait to hear all about it!
Vela Tomba says
Love this!! Thanks for the encouragement!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Vela! So excited you stopped by. I know one little granddaughter who needs a set of these!
marie says
Totally spot on! Growing up my parents had us make eachother gifts…we received one store bought gift. We would clean out our closets and donate clothing,books,blankets,and coats to the mission in town,an orphanage in Mexico (we lived in a border town). My fathher worked at a prison,so Thanksgiving and Christmas was a time to,serve dinner to the prisioners and the homeless. As president of their employees club,my father would also,call the elementary schools for a list of families in need. We would then go and buy dinners for the families and deliver presents to them…even Christmas trees and ornaments. My parents were a great example to us children. I,try to,do,the same. Whether it be delivering snacks and travel mugs of cocoa to the homeless downtown,dollars or change for laundry,or just thank you snack trays to our community helpers. In doing so,I hope my little one will carry on with a serving heart. A mommy can only hope 🙂 I can’t wait to start this tradition with my family. Thank you and your family for fulfilling the need. Would absolutely love the ornaments for our advent.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Wow Marie! What wonderful examples you had in your parents. That is such an encouragement to all of us. Taking the time to serve and meet the needs of others really makes an impression on all involved! So glad you shared that with us. I know your little one will gain from your example too!
Sandy says
Thanks for all the inspiration.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Sandy–your Noah ornament does not get it’s due justice in this picture! So excited for you or someone else to get to enjoy this extra set!
Bonnie says
Love your post. Thank you for the great ideals. So want Christmas to be meaningful to the kids….beyond their “I want” list.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Bonnie. We all gotta help each other out, right? It’s hard to think about “giving” when there is so much “me-first” going around–myself the most! Thanks for reading and your encouragement too.
Tina says
I know a very sweet family of 5 whose father has been out of work now for a month. He was laid off and has been on many interviews, but no job offers so far. They are far from their extended family and just feeling a little defeated. I would LOVE to encourage them with this free set this Christmas!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Oh I would too! Thanks for thinking of them and wanting to bless them in this way.
Jennie Elverum says
LOVE this set…so cute!!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Jennie! I still love our first original group set the very most! So special to me–but yes, this group is ready for Etsy!
Stephanie W says
I would love to win this!! Thanks for all you do Jacki!!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Yes, Steph! I would love it for you too! Thanks for all your support. Andrew just told me the other day–I want to hang out with the boy who always wears costumes and his mom who wears superhero shirts. I miss them :)! Hilarious! You and Weston make quite an impression! Miss y’all!
Kristen F says
Oh, I so want to win these Jacki! Timing and circumstances have prevented me from participating or hosting an ornament exchange for two years in a row, but I would love to have a set to do the Jesse Tree with my kids. Thanks for giving so generously!
This year for a number of reasons, I am finishing any Christmas shopping that has to be done by December 1. I made that deadline for myself because we several events planned, some travel planned, and family coming into stay for an extended Christmas visit. I don’t want all the busy-ness that can so easily overtake this season to steal my joy (and make me a crabby mommy who steals my kids’ joy). I want to be able to be present and enjoy the time together as a family and find ways that we can bless others together. Thanks for all the great reminders this season, friend!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Oh Kristen–I just love this idea! That sounds so wise too just in that I make a lot of last minute decisions and spend too much! Thanks for your encouragement and reading here–and I would just absolutely love for you to win this too!
Kimi says
Yes, please!! 🙂
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Kimi! Fingers crossed!
Christi k says
Love this! Thank you for sharing so many resources & being so honest 🙂 your post is inspirational & motivating 😀
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Christi! We all need to encourage one another don’t we? Thanks for reading!
Katherine says
Thank you so much for your post. I loved the reminder that small opportunities make an impact and not to wait and focus on only grand giving. Training up our children to focus on Christ and extending ourselves to others is super important. This “me first” and “I want” focus has to be redirected. I would love to win a set of your ornaments and be able to participate in your Jesse Tree devotion this year with my girls.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Katherine for your words! Yes, I echo that 100%! Well, you have had a pretty good track record so far with winning things–so who knows?! I’d be happy for you to win!
Renee Meyer says
oh, I would love to win these. We have done a Jesse tree with paper ornaments the last few years. And I seriously thought about ordering a devotional and getting a group started up here, but it was too much this year. Love your heart so much, Jacki, and miss you!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Oh miss you too! I was just telling Richard how much our entertainment preferences lined up and how fun it is to feel like you get to know someone better even when they are far away! I hope you win this too, and if not, Lord willing, I would love to help you get one going next year!
Sunshine Metschke says
Beautiful thoughts, beautiful ornaments!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
What a beautiful name Sunshine! Thanks for stopping here and wanting to do the Jesse Tree!
Angie says
My husband and i tried to start this tradition with my twins last year. Praying that God will provide this wonderful resource! Shepperding children’s hearts is hard work and we will take all the help we can get! 🙂
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Amen Angie! And twins–yes, I’m sure that add an extra “special” dynamic! Here’s hoping this set goes to you!
Melinda Knott says
Loved reading this. Thanks so much for the encouragement and inspiration of the Lord’s heart for us and how we can have this for others. (:
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Melinda, yes, my daily prayer is Lord, help my unbelief. I have the desire to live this out but can’t without YOU! Thanks for stopping by and reading here–your words are a great encouragement to me!
velma says
I had hoped to be involved in an ornament exchange this year, but it didn’t work out. I would love these beautiful ornaments to use this year for our Jesse Tree. Also, It would be really neat to be able to share them as samples next year with the ladies in my church.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Velma! Yes, when the timing is right my friend, I hope you can lead a group! In the meantime…it would be nice if these went to you!
Kristen S. says
So encouraging! What a blessing to be a part of this year’s ornament swap! Can’t wait for Dec. 1!!!!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Kristen! Thanks for doing the exchange this year. But as I’ve learned, you can never have too many sets! There is always someone new to share this tradition with OR I really love both my kids having a set. They get so excited to each have an ornament to hang on the tree! Best of luck!
Julie says
Really appreciate this blog post. Have been in prayer about doing the Jesse Tree this year and feel like the ages of my kids is perfect. I had made all the ornaments and a tree to hang them on 5 years ago for my sister’s children. They have loved it each year. But having 4 kids in 5 years of my own now, I have yet to have time to make mine. I thought about asking to borrow the one I made but couldn’t take away the rich tradition God alloed me to give them 5 years ago as my niece and nephews love it! Would be deeply blessed to win these and start this now with my own family!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Julie–what a gracious giver you are! What a treasured gift you gave to your sister. I would love for you to win this!
Alyson says
Just what I needed to read – thank you so much for sharing! Beautiful ornaments! What a blessing to whomever “wins”!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Alyson, so glad you stopped here. Praying for both of us to rest in the Lord and what He has for us this season!
Keri says
Yay! I can’t wait to give this to a friend of mine for the Christmas season to truly fix their eyes and hearts on Jesus!!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Awesome Keri! We love to hear that people are sharing the Jesse Tree with others–thanks for entering here for your friend!
Beth says
I loved this – thank you so much for sharing!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Beth! I appreciate you reading and checking in here!
Marissa cope says
I would love to start this tradition with our daughter! What a beautiful and meaningful set. Thanks for your work to spread this resource for God’s glory!!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Thanks Marissa for your encouragement. I would love for your daughter to have this set too!
Felicity says
Hi Jackie,
I stumbled on your blog from a link KP put up once. I’m so grateful for it…I’ve been trying to think through some traditions for our family. Thanks for the amaxing perspective!
Felicity
Jacki Rucksdashel says
There are so many great things out there to help you celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. We are grateful you stopped by here!
Christa Stem says
A friend of mine mentioned Jesse’s tree a few weeks ago, so I stumbled upon your post while “researching”! I cannot wait to start this tradition with our 2 year old!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hi Christa! I’m so glad you are joining us for the Jesse Tree! We started when our daughter was 2 and she to this day remembers our first set of ornaments. They were just little printable ones she colored, but we kept them! You will be creating precious memories!
Christy Hays says
Hey! Just heard about this & would love to start this season with my 3 children! Would love to win!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Hey Christy! Oh I’m so glad you were led here–fingers crossed! Just another day and we’ll find out! Thanks for stopping by.
Emily says
Thank you so much for this amazing Christ-centered resource! My son is 1.5 yrs and I also have a newborn. I’m excited to start some new traditions that he will be able to participate in this year. I kept pinning “elf on the shelf” because it looked fun, but they seemed to be more about mischief. Then I pinned the “kindness elves”… serving people is great but I felt it was still missing the entire point of why we serve. The Jesse tree is exactly what I wanted and was looking for but didn’t know it already existed! A Christ centered, kid level devotional already done for me where I can add (or sometime subtract with a newborn) anything extra to the countdown…how much time or much sleep the previous night do we have energy for but always making it about Jesus! So, thank you!
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Yes Emily! So glad you found us and the Jesse Tree! You are exactly where we were 6 years ago, and just thinking about what we wanted our kids to know and take away from Christmas–and when we found the Jesse Tree, it was like we knew we found exactly the way we wanted to celebrate Christmas. Thanks for stopping by here and for reading, and I would love for your kiddos to have this set!
Kirsten Endsley says
Jacki!!! So proud of you for sharing this sweet and purposeful tradition with the world! You are making a difference in so many homes… Hearts of little children and probably adults are experiencing LIFE change because of your obedience to the Lord. I’m definitely doing a group next year!!
Hugs!! KJ
Jacki Rucksdashel says
KJ!! So good to hear from you! I can’t believe you are back in our old stomping grounds. I’m hoping to visit there soon now that we are much closer being in Houston! Thanks for your encouragement. It means so much especially coming from someone I respect and love so much and knows children’s hearts so well! Hug those sweet boys of yours and I would love for you to lead a group next year. And to win this set!!