"From Bethlehem to Your Kitchen: Festive Ideas That Honor the Season"

It’s the festive season again—the time when we deck the halls, sip on dubious eggnog, and spend hours staring at Amazon wondering if that $10 neck massager says “thoughtful” or “I panicked.” Amidst the chaos of consumerism and cookie exchanges, let’s not forget who the reason for the season is: Lord Jesus

This year, let’s channel his teachings into thoughtful gifts and recipes that reflect the heart of the holiday. Spoiler: he probably wouldn’t have endorsed buying another novelty mug.

Gift Ideas Straight Outta Bethlehem

1. Gifts That Give Twice

Remember how Jesus was big on generosity? Skip the gadgets and give gifts that keep on giving. Organizations like Heifer International or Compassion International let you “gift” a goat or school supplies to families in need. A goat! Jesus would totally be on board with a goat. Imagine his parables if goats were involved: “And lo, the goat gave milk unto the people, and it was good.”

2. DIY Miracles

Channel your inner carpenter (Jesus' day job, remember?) and make something personal. A handmade bookshelf, a carved ornament, or even a painted wooden sign with a verse like “Peace on Earth” not only nods to his profession but also shows you put time and love into the gift.

3. Books with a Purpose

Give books that inspire faith, kindness, or even just a hearty laugh. A devotional journal like Rhapsody, a beautifully illustrated Bible, or something humorous like The Gospel According to Peanuts could make someone’s season brighter.

4. Acts of Service

Can’t figure out what to buy? Do what Jesus would: give your time. Offer to babysit, help fix a leaky faucet, or cook someone a meal. This kind of gift speaks volumes—plus, you don’t have to wrap it.

Recipes That Warm the Heart and Soul

1. Honey and Herb Flatbread

Travel back to the time of Jesus with a simple flatbread that would’ve been right at home at the Last Supper (minus Judas’s shady side-eye). Mix whole wheat flour, olive oil, water, a drizzle of honey, and some thyme. Bake it until golden, then serve with hummus or a drizzle of more olive oil. It’s a humble but heartwarming dish.

2. Figgy Pudding 2.0

While the Bible doesn’t specifically mention figs in dessert form, they do get a shoutout in parables. Blend dried figs with dates, a splash of orange juice, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake it into a mini cake or serve as a spread. Bonus points if you shout, “Bring us some figgy pudding!” when presenting it.

3. Wine-Inspired Punch

Whip up a festive punch? Mix red wine (or grape juice for the virtuous crowd) with orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and a splash of sparkling water. It’s celebratory, shareable, and as close to Cana as we’ll get.

Keeping Jesus at the Heart of the Season

Sure, the holidays are full of twinkle lights, office parties, and Mariah Carey belting about her wish list, but let’s not lose sight of the original gift: love. Jesus came to bring hope, joy, and the ultimate example of giving without expecting anything in return.

So whether you’re gifting a goat, baking a flatbread, or volunteering your time, remember that what matters most is the love behind it. And if someone asks why you’re bringing figgy pudding instead of a store-bought cheesecake, just smile and say, “It’s for Jesus.”

Happy holidays, and may your season be full of joy, peace, and the occasional wine-inspired miracle!