Gift giving is a long-standing tradition of Christmas, a timeless tradition that originated back in the Roman 2nd Century AD, with a festivity known as Saturnalia.
According to Wikipedia, Saturnalia “was an ancient Roman festival in honour of the deity Saturn, held on 17 December of the Julian calendar and later expanded with festivities through to 23 December. The holiday was celebrated with a sacrifice at the Temple of Saturn, in the Roman Forum, and a public banquet, followed by private gift-giving.”
It wasn’t until the 4th Century that the idea of Christmas was born when early Christian leaders phased out the pagan celebration by “creat(ing) a rival festival to mark Jesus’ birth: Christmas”, according to This Week. Over the years it has evolved to what it is today. A time to gather with family friends, of gift giving and of tradition.
There is a JOY that comes from giving, not begrudgingly, but whole heartedly. It is this JOY, a undescribable joy, that fills my heart to overflowing that I want to share.
“Give … freely and unselfishly, and the Lord will bless you in everything you do.” Deuteronomy 15:10
When you “WIN” a title you don’t become a “PRINCESS“, you don’t get free clothes and jewelery, you don’t become an instant star and have people wanting to take your picture everywhere you go. However, you are given an amazing opportunity to be a representative, to give back. Community service is a vital part of being a title holder. Most do it instinctly, without hesitation or thinking twice. There is no expectation of receiving. It is selfless and honorable. It’s a type of giving back that is both empowering and inspirational.
So, in honor of Christmas and giving back, I am giving this gift to you.
My Christmas Prayer
Gathered with friends and family around the tree
With smiles in abundance and LOVE all around
While blessings fill the air
May your heart be full and your LOVE be great
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
With Love Always,
A Pageant Mommy
I’ve seen a whole bunch of these “real meaning of Christmas posts” lately, but this was a new perspective from a pagent mom. Thanks for this insight into a new world and for participating in the #fandayfriday link party today! #fdflinkparty
I just love this! Give freely and unselfishly! Beautiful!
Belle | One Awesome Momma
Giving joyfully is really the best part <3
What a sweet gift 🙂 It’s nice to remember this during the holidays!
I love this. Great prayer at the end!
Sweet poem! Yes, giving and sharing joy is what counts the most.
I love this. Beautifully done.
An amazing gift!
Beautiful! Giving really is a joyous thing!
I have been trying to teach my 4 year old the real meaning of Christmas this year and giving is better than receiving is one of my lessons.
What a great Scripture! It’s easy to miss some gems in the OT. It really is a great time of year as we pause to consider the Incarnation 🙂
This is a good perspective Too many times, people get caught up in the material things, and forget what Christmas is about!!
I love your Christmas prayer!
This is a great reminder. Thanks for sharing.
Very interesting. I love to learn the history behind various customs–especially Christmas customs!
Love the prayer! I love giving more than receiving!
nice sentiment! merry christmas!
It’s easy to forget with the long wish lists and long lines at stores. Sometimes it becomes a chore rather than a joy.