This is the month we devote to giving thanks. As we think about the upcoming holiday season, it is very easy to skip worship for polishing silverware, finalizing a menu, and inviting guests to celebrate in our Thanksgiving feast. It is also a time where we think of Christmas, and our budgets can be stressed and we can defer our scheduled gifts to the church. It can be exhausting, and many of us are stretched thin both in terms of finances and time.

While we skip some steps in our Christian journey because we have a never-ending list of “to-dos,” we have an incredible opportunity as well. It goes with the saying that with great challenges there are great opportunities. As you spend more time with your family, consider making time to tell stories. Storytelling is an important part of the generosity we share with our families. You have a perfect opportunity when family members are at your home, in your kitchen, sitting around a table. You can share the legacy that certain pieces of on your holiday table – a special bowl that once held your grandmother’s dressing every Thanksgiving – and why they matter to you. They’re not just objects; they remind you of your grandmother’s legacy and life, and in turn, reminds you of their generous spirit.

You can go a step further and share with your family how volunteering at a shelter around the holidays reminds you of the importance of volunteerism. Share your life with those you love. Hey, it’s certainly better than talking about politics!

These stories you share can always be what your faith, your church family, or your pastor has meant in your life, how they surrounded you during times of hardship that the rest of your family may not even be aware of. Many children and grandchildren have chosen to either not attend church or seek out non-denomination churches that don’t have the closely knit relationships we rely on.   We often encourage church members to make their church the beneficiary of a legacy gift. The stories we share with our family can make your children feel good about fulfilling that wish.

The holidays are such an important time of year and my personal favorite. Let’s consider sharing our desire for generosity during this season and truly make it a “season of giving.” What better gift to celebrate thanks during this important time of the year.