Our family has many Christmas traditions. Some are classic, like attending the Christmas Eve service together and reading the Christmas story in the morning before opening presents. Others involve eating pizza bread at the family get-together and expecting a toothbrush, toothpaste, and an orange in my stocking from Grandma each year.

But another thing to expect from Grandma isn't so common-- a $10 bill. Each of the grandkids would receive that $10 with the instructions of that it has to be spent on someone else. There are lots of different options in which to spend/donate the money. It could go towards the Lottie Moon Christmas offering, choosing a child from the Angel Tree, to buy items from the Samaritan's Purse catalog... or any other organization or personal friend who could have needed that money. The kids were to chose on their own and then report back to Grandma about the decision they made.
 This activity wasn't about the money donated, though it does start to add up with 16 grandkids and several great-grandkids now. The lesson learned was about making sure we are giving to others in need during this season instead of just focusing on our own Christmas lists! I will never forget the contemplation of how I wanted to spend that money each year and the feeling of pride to know I contributed. As I got older, I was even inclined to add a little of my personal stash to the donation, as well.

Isn't it ironic that one of my favorite childhood Christmas memories is spending money on someone else than any of the toys that I ever opened on Christmas morning?

Without a doubt, this tradition will be carried out in my home. Granted, this year my son is only two, but we will still make the effort to let him put money in the Salvation Army bucket. This holiday season, think about ways that you can teach your children to make a difference!

What holiday traditions does your family have that involves helping others? What are some that you might like to start? (It's never too late to create a new one!)

Opportunities to help others are abundant this time of year. Some of popular ones include:

• Samaritian's Purse Catalog (like buying a chicken to produce eggs for a family)
• Angel Tree 
• Toys for Tots
• Prision Fellowship (toys for children with incarcerated parents)
• Food Banks

May you have a very Merry Christmas season and may it be filled with lots of opportunities for your to make a difference!