Christmas is an exciting time of year for Christians who celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. We pause to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday, and express our gratitude toward our Father for his many blessings that we enjoy throughout the year.

While the holidays are a blessing for many of us, they can be a burden for many people as well. As Christians, the lessons we learn from Christmas should make us especially considerate and compassionate towards those who need compassion over the holidays.

Here are a few ways we can show our compassion to those less fortunate or those suffering during this time of year.

Generosity is an expression of gratitude – for those less fortunate, a simple gesture of generosity can go a long way. Buy or prepare a meal for a family that may not otherwise have a wonderful meal. As Colossians 3:12 – 13 states, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”

Give thanks – the busyness of the holiday season sometimes leaves little room for us to pause and consider the season, but we should take a moment and give thanks for all the blessings from our Father.

Share the family experience – many people suffer great loneliness during this time of year. Students may be away from family. The elderly may be without loved ones. For those who have experienced a loss, the holidays can be exceptionally hard, so share the love of your family with someone in need.

Giving doesn’t need to be just gifts – yes, for many of us, Christmas is about giving gifts, but these gifts should be from the heart, and not based on price. Sometimes the gift of time can be the most precious gift of all! Forgiveness can be another powerful gift. Use the season to forgive and be compassionate. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” ~Ephesians 4:32

Just sometimes saying hello or just a simple smile can brighten someone’s day and lift them up.  Taking time to talk to the clerk at the grocery store or calling them by their name.  As greeters in church, recognition is so important making others feel important and loved.

The holiday season gives all of us Christians to truly show “the reason for the season”. Take moment and give thanks for all that you have, and share your Christian love and compassion with others.