My family continues a Christmas tradition that my mom started years ago. We find another family that is going through a hard time—like experiencing the first holiday without a child or a loved one. We choose a specific nativity scene and separately wrap each piece with a note that includes scripture, a song and a story. Then we number our packages, count backwards from Christmas Eve, and secretly drop a package each day. On Christmas Eve, they receive the greatest gift of all, our Savior! Sometimes we reveal who left them; other times it remains a secret. We may know the family really well, or they may be practically strangers. It’s all about who God places on our heart.
Watching my kids doing this as they have grown up has been fun. When they first started, it was a game. They ask, “Can I get the present on the porch without getting caught, or do we need to come back later tonight?” Now, it means so much more as they pray for these families while we prepare to drop off another present each day.
Several have shared with me how this tradition helped them through this tough time of year. I sent this privately because we don’t always want others to know it is us. We are able to bless more families between me, my mom and my sister.
