The Christmas season is one of giving, and if you're a churchgoer, your pastor, church staff, volunteers and leaders may be among those you want to honor with a gift on this special day. Gifts are not just a pleasant tradition; they're also a reflection of the ultimate gift given to us by God: His Son, Jesus Christ.
As you show love by gift-giving, take a moment to reflect on what James says about giving in James 1:17: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
Of course, you are not obliged to give your church leader a Christmas gift, but if you want to show love by thoughtful gift-giving, here are some ideas of what to get.
A gift certificate to a restauran, grocery store
If your church leader is a foodie -- or have a large family -- they'll love a gift certificate to a restaurant or grocery store. If you choose to give money include a note that suggests they use it on a nice meal -- not bills or daily necessities. It's also a safe gift option for those hard-to-shop-for individuals.
Tickets to a movie or local concert
If your pastor has children, he and his spouse will love family tickets to a movie or local concert. Including your church leader's family in a gift is a great way to let them know you appreciate and support not only them, but their family as well.
Magazine subscription
If your church leader is an avid reader, you can't go wrong with a magazine subscription. There are a number of great Christian options out there, from World Magazine to Christianity Today to Christian History Magazine, but you don't have to stick to religious magazines. Your pastor may appreciate a subscription to a magazine focused on culinary arts such as Bon Appetit, Life and Thyme, or an outdoor magazine such as Garden and Gun or National Geographic.
Theme park/bowling/mini golf tickets
With all the time they dedicate to their ministry, your pastor or church leader deserves a fun day off with the family. Gift certificates to a theme park, mini golfing or bowling are always a great option for the hard-working ministry leader in your life.
Charitable gift
Your pastor will be touched when you give a gift in their name to a ministry they advocate for. World Vision's gift catalog is a great place to start, or check out this list of awesome gifts that give back to charity. Your pastor will appreciate seeing your faith-in-action!
Gift certificate to a car wash or gas station
While a gift certificate to a car wash or gas station may not be the most glamorous gift, it will certainly be useful and appreciated.
An encouraging card
Your Christmas gift doesn't need to cost money -- sometimes, the greatest gift are simple words of encouragement. Let your pastor or church leader know how much they have influenced you and encouraged your heart in a handmade card. Here are great Bible verses you can include! If you want, you can include a Starbucks gift card inside -- tell the leaders that you'd love to meet with them for coffee and find out how you can help them.
