The Christmas story - the story of Jesus being born in a manger, shepherds coming to visit and kings following a star to find this infant child -is a story filled with stewardship messages. As you remember the Christmas story this year, talk about the stewardship lessons we find with your family. 

Part 1 of 3: Lesson from the Infant Jesus "Time, Talent and Treasures"

There is no shame in being poor. 

It is interesting to note that while throughout his adult life Jesus always taught us to give and to serve, He first came into this world as one who needed assistance. It was no accident that He was born without a place to lay His head. In coming to our world in this way, Jesus shows us there is no shame in being poor. A risk we take when we practice stewardship is that we may begin to think of ourselves as better or more deserving than someone in need and consciously or unconsciously look down upon those who need our generosity. When we look down upon those in need we look down upon the infant Jesus himself. 

Part 2 of 3: Lesson from the Shepherds "Christmas Lessons and Stewardship"

We all have gifts to give. 

The shepherds came from the fields bringing only themselves and their sheep. Yet their interest in Jesus was enough to win them a place in the Christmas story for all times. What is their stewardship message to us? Even if all we have to give is our interest, our caring, and our time to come and visit; those are important gifts to give. 

Part 3 of 3: Lesson from the Wise Men 

Just worshipping Jesus isn't enough. 

The Wise Men present an entirely different message than the shepherds. Like most of us, these were men with many blessings. They are praised in the Christmas story not just for coming to worship Jesus but also for bringing Him gifts. The lesson is that just going to church is not enough. We also are expected to bring our gifts with us.