As we enter in the Christmas season we hear so much about how this is a time for all of us to give.  As I prepared to speak to a group of Middle School and High School guys I thought I should talk to them about Christmas and what it is all about.  Then my good friend Micah said how great would it be if we talked to them about other ways that they can really give, instead of gifts or money.  WOW, what a great thought Micah.  So I began to think, as we think about Christmas and the birth of Christ what kind of giving should I be talking about.

I found myself looking at John 1 and want to challenge myslef and other men in my life to give something far more valuable than money or toys.  So here are three things that I am hoping to pray over myself and live out this Christmas and God willing beyond.

Give your full presence! John 1:1-5, 14
Think about the fact that God is everywhere and yet he still chose to come and be physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually present with us. The sad fact is that we as guys are known for being with our family, but not really being there.  We are contantly seen as men wishing we were somewhere else or our minds are only thinking about getting home to watch the game.  Can you imagine if this had been teh character of Christ?  Don't get me wrong Heaven was always on His mind but He was here and totally engaged in ministry on the earth while he was here.

Give your service!
One idea constantly taught by Jesus was that He came to serve not be served (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; John 13:5-20). Yet, at the celebration of Christ’s birth we tend to be known for sitting, eating, and watching football or going hunting. None of those are bad things but they shouldn’t define us.  When is the last time you saw the men volunteering to help with food, cleaning, prep of house, or whatever at Christmas?  No we always have the attitude that our wives or mom's made us do it.  What if we sacrificed some time and served?

Give your grace!
What better time of year do you have to share the grace of Christ with others? Easter is great but it is a day. Christmas is a month of opportunity to talk about Christ and what He has done for you. Isn’t grace the reason that Christ was born? Men you are called to be spiritual leaders! Use this time of being surrounded by the idea of Christ to begin living that idea out and share the gospel with all you can.