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As the holiday season approaches, our thoughts often turn toward family, traditions, celebrations, and giving. It’s a special time of year, but it can also be a difficult season for many people.
The holidays remind us that giving is about so much more than what can be wrapped in a box.
A few years ago, my family had the opportunity to experience this in a very personal way. We had recently met someone who didn’t have anyone to share the holidays with. We didn’t know this person very well, but we knew one thing: no one should have to feel alone during a time when the world seems to be celebrating together.
So, we opened our home and invited them to share the holiday with our family.
It wasn’t about having the perfect meal or creating an elaborate celebration. It was simply about making room at the table and letting someone know, “You are welcome here.”
More recently, we were reminded again that hospitality doesn’t always require words. Two Spanish-speaking individuals were working on our shower, and when the workday was over, we sat down and shared a meal together. We couldn’t understand much of what they were saying, and they couldn’t understand much of what we were saying. But somehow, we still managed to laugh, share a meal, and enjoy one another’s company.
We didn’t speak the same language, but we understood something that didn’t need translation: you are welcome at our table.
Those experiences have reminded me that sometimes the greatest gift we can give isn’t something we purchase. Sometimes it is our time, our attention, our home, a meal, or simply making room for someone else.
The Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “God loves a cheerful giver.”
God cares not only about what we give, but about the heart behind our giving. We don’t give because we have to. We give because we have been blessed, and we have the opportunity to become a blessing to someone else.
While some people may be looking forward to celebrations surrounded by family and friends, others may be facing loneliness, loss, financial struggles, or uncertainty. A simple act of kindness can remind someone that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
This season, let’s look beyond the presents and remember the presence we can offer. Let’s look for the person who may need an invitation, a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply a place at the table.
We may never know how much one small act of kindness means to someone else.
Because the greatest gift isn’t always the one that comes in a package.
Sometimes the greatest gift is simply making room for someone else in our hearts and in our lives.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for every blessing You have placed in our lives. As we enter this season of giving, help us remember that generosity isn’t always about how much we have to give. Sometimes it is about simply being willing to share what we already have.
Open our eyes to the people around us who may be lonely, struggling, hungry, or simply in need of someone to notice them. Give us hearts that are willing to make room—for a stranger, a neighbor, a coworker, or anyone You place in our path.
Help us to give without expecting anything in return. Teach us to offer kindness freely, to welcome others warmly, and to remember that even a small act of love can make a difference.
Thank You for the example of Jesus, who showed us what it means to love, serve, and give.
May our homes, our workplaces, and our communities be places where people feel welcomed, valued, and cared for.
And when we have the opportunity to give, remind us that we aren’t just giving something away—we are sharing the blessings You have already given to us.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Devotional provided by:
Jessica Tousey-Schmidt | Donation Station Production Lead
