Christmas in July: Cultivating Generous Hearts with the Global Gift Guide

Every year, our family looks forward to a special tradition that brings joy and a sense of giving into our home: celebrating Christmas with the Global Gift Guide catalog. With nine kids, it’s always a lively affair, filled with thoughtful discussions. This fun tradition not only brings us closer together but also teaches our children about the importance of generosity.

This year, World Concern is celebrating Christmas in July with the Global Gift Guide, creating a new opportunity for my wife and me to sit down with the kids and teach them how to cultivate a giving heart.

A Family Tradition of Giving

This July, we gathered around the living room, the Global Gift Guide catalog spread out before us. The colorful pages were filled with gifts that could change lives — clean water, livestock, medical care, and more. Each child eagerly flipped through the catalog, wondering about the impact they could make.

Our 8-year-old son was particularly captivated by the "44 Cent Cure." He learned that for just 44 cents, we could provide medication to children suffering from parasitic worms, transforming their health and future. His enthusiasm was contagious, and soon the 11 year old was talking about how disgusting worms are.

Our 4-year-old daughter, with her love for all things cute and cuddly, was drawn to the picture of a family of chickens. "I want to give them chickens!" she declared with a big smile. We explained that giving chickens to a family not only provided them with eggs for nourishment but also a source of income. Her simple choice showed us how even the youngest among us can grasp the joy of giving.

Teaching Generosity Through Action

We believe that teaching our children about generosity goes beyond words; it’s about showing them how their actions can make a real difference. Sitting down with the Global Gift Guide catalog is a hands-on way to cultivate a generous heart. It allows them to see that giving is not just about the act itself but about the positive change it brings to others' lives.

We shared a Bible verse that has always guided us in our giving: "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7, ESV). This verse reminds us that true generosity comes from the heart, filled with joy and love for those we are helping.

Encouraging Others to Give

As we finished selecting our gifts, the room was filled with a sense of accomplishment and happiness. Each child knew that their choices, no matter how small, were making a big difference in the world. We encourage you to experience this joy with your family. Take some time to sit down with your children and the Global Gift Guide catalog, and let them choose gifts that resonate with their hearts.

By giving through the Global Gift Guide, you’re not only helping those in need but also teaching your children the true spirit of generosity. It’s a wonderful way to bond as a family and to instill values that will last a lifetime.

So why not start a new tradition this year? Celebrate "Christmas in July" with the Global Gift Guide, and watch as your children’s hearts fill with the joy of giving. Together, we can make a difference, one gift at a time.