What Shall We Give?

As Christmas draws near and the world sparkles with lights, gifts, and glitter, it’s easy to get swept up in the hustle. But in the quiet moments,somewhere between feeding the animals and losing the tape dispenser again, I find myself asking: What shall we give?

Not just to family, not to friends, not even to the Amazon delivery driver who’s now on a first-name basis with the dog, but what shall we give Him?

Let’s remember the real reason for the season. Christmas is about the birth of the Christ child, a gift given to us in love, humility, and grace. And the beautiful thing is, we can give back. Not with something wrapped in shiny paper and a bow, but by giving of ourselves.

Give kindness when it’s hard. Give forgiveness where it’s long overdue. Give time to someone who’s lonely, or help to someone who’s struggling, a warm meal, a heartfelt prayer, a handwritten card, a hug that lingers just a second longer than usual… those are the gifts that honor His birth.

And you know what? Even the animals get it. The chickens give us eggs every day, like clockwork—even on Christmas morning. The sheep offer wool for warmth. The dogs give loyalty and laughter (and the occasional “what is that in your mouth?!” moment). They don’t worry about shopping lists or Pinterest-worthy wrapping. They just give what they have. And maybe that’s the real lesson.

So, what shall we give? Let’s give what He gave—love and kindness.

Wishing you all a very merry and meaningful Christmas from our little farm to wherever you call home. May your hearts be full, your cocoa be hot, your barn chores be light, and your Wi-Fi be strong enough to stream the Christmas classics.

P.S. In case you’re wondering—yes, I did try to get one of the sheep to wear a Santa hat for a festive photo. No, it did not go well. The hat is somewhere out in the field, the sheep is still judging me, and I have a hoof print on my coat as a reminder that fashion is not for everyone.