Long ago, wise men from the East saw a new star shining brighter than any other. They understood it as a sign that a great King had been born and they set out on a long journey to find Him. Guided by the star, they travelled across deserts and mountains, bringing with them precious gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. When they finally found the child Jesus in a humble home, they knelt and presented their gifts. (Matthew 2:1-12) They honoured Him not just with treasure, but with their time, effort and hearts fully open. Their visitation brought joy, recognition and encouragement to Mary, Joseph and the newborn King.

A Season for Visiting

This story reminds us that Christmas is more than decoration and celebration—it’s a season of reaching out. A beautiful season of visitation, when we step out of our routines to show up for one another with presence, warmth, and shared moments that remind us we belong. Visiting friends, family, or those in need, communicates a lot about the love of God. In visiting others, we mirror the heart of Christmas—offering companionship, lifting burdens, and reminding those we love that they are seen and valued. Every visit becomes a small gift of grace, turning ordinary doorsteps into places of connection, encouragement, and renewed joy. Christmas celebration is even more significant in community through shared joy. For example, as soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, even the baby in her womb leaped for joy (Luke 1:44).

A Season of Giving

Giving is not only confined to the Christmas season. It is more than exchanging wrapped gifts. It is a reflection of the generous heart of God, who first gave Himself to us through Christ. In this season, our acts of giving—whether time, kindness, encouragement or resources—carry the power to heal, uplift and remind others that they matter. True Christmas giving is rooted in love, not obligation. It is rooted in compassion, not pressure. When we give freely and thoughtfully, we help create moments of light in a world that often feels heavy and we embody the very spirit of Christmas Every gift we give carries a message: “I see you, I value you and you are important to me. Showing up with love is a gift in itself.

Celebrating People, Not Things

Honouring others with our gifts doesn’t always require wealth—it can be a kind word, a listening ear or a thoughtful action. Like the Magi, when we give with intention and respect, our gifts become expressions of love, encouragement and recognition, lifting the hearts of those we visit and reminding them of their worth. In this season, be intentional about honouring the people God has placed in your lives. A visit, a call, a message, a thoughtful gesture… these small offerings can speak louder than any wrapped present. They say, “You matter. I’m grateful for you.”

In this season, let us ask ourselves: who can we visit and how can we offer a gift that honour and uplifts?

I would love to hear from you: how do you hope to honour others with your gifts during Christmas? Has someone’s kindness, presence or simple act of love uplifted you in a meaningful way this season? True Christmas giving is about connection, love and celebrating others as we celebrate Christ.

Share your experiences in the comments—your story might be the encouragement someone else needs today.