Materialism

Kids are growing up in a world that constantly tells them they need more. New toys, trendy clothes, the latest gadgets and endless advertisements can make it easy to believe that happiness comes from what we have. During the Christmas season especially, kids can become focused on wish lists, gifts and getting the things they want most.

In this week’s Brite lesson, kids will hear about the birth of Jesus and discover that Jesus brings love. When Jesus entered the world, He was not born into wealth, comfort or luxury. Instead, God showed His love by sending His Son in the humblest of circumstances. The first Christmas was never about what people received. It was about the greatest gift God could give—Jesus.

As you talk with your kid this week, encourage them to think about what makes Christmas meaningful beyond presents and possessions. Take time to notice ways God has shown His love to your family throughout the year. Remind your kid that while gifts can be fun, they do not define our worth or bring lasting joy. God’s love is the greatest gift we will ever receive, and it is a gift that never runs out.

Here’s how we discussed this topic and how you can discuss it at home: 

Discuss: Why do people talk so much about Christmas presents this time of year?

Discuss: Do you think kids your age focus too much on presents? Why or why not?

Discuss: What do you think God has to say about that?

Say: Giving and receiving gifts is such a fun part of the Christmas season. Sometimes, though, we can become so focused on the material things that we lose focus on what is most important. Jesus is the whole reason we celebrate Christmas. If we catch ourselves thinking way more about presents than we think about Jesus, we may be focusing on the wrong things. Consider ways to put Jesus first this week. Read the Christmas story from Luke 2 as a family, start each day with a prayer of thanksgiving to God or find a way to serve someone else this week. James 1:17 says: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights. Every good thing in the Christmas season is ultimately a gift from God. Let’s celebrate Him above everything else!