The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
Legend has it that the real St. Nicholas helped out a destitute father with three daughters by providing their dowery in gold. He secretly placed the gold in the stockings drying by the fire (or dropped it down the chimney)!
Whether or not this legend is true, humble giving without seeking recognition for the deed is something to strive for.
Philippians 2:3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.
This Christmas, sit down with the kids and plan a secret Christmas surprise for someone!
Keep it simple: a plate of Christmas cookies for the neighbors, delivering a turkey to Grandma and Grandpa’s front porch or dropping off a few dozen Christmas cards for the local senior citizen center.
This must be a secret mission, just like St. Nic’s delivery of gold to the poor father!
SURPRISE PRESENT
Easy project: Christmas stocking filled with gold!
Instructions:
1-fold a sheet of copy paper in half and cut out a stocking on the fold
2-cut on the fold to separate the two stockings
3-poke a hole in the center and cut a V shape
4-fold the V back and trace the triangle on the bottom stocking
5-cover triangle in glue stick and gold glitter (let dry)
6-decorate top stocking
7-glue both halves together
8-the secret flap reveals what is hidden inside the stocking…GOLD!
We’ve all heard it is better to give than receive, especially at Christmas. Talk with your kids about giving with the heart of Jesus, when no one knows, except you and God!