-Matthew 18:3

Every now and again, a child says or does something that fills a parent with pride and lets them know that all the talking, the lecturing, the hugging and loving is actually making a difference.

My sons and I decided that we would sort through their play room, find all the books, toys, and clothes that they no longer needed, pack them in boxes and donate them to charity. Like many families, we make regular trips to the Salvation Army, Goodwill or other charitable organizations with used appliances and bags of hand-me-downs. Yes, we have charitable and giving hearts, but my wife and I also take advantage of these organizations as a place to drop-off our unwanted junk. Additionally, we are aware that our giving makes us eligible to receive a tax write-off at the end of the year. Thankfully, our boys are not similarly jaded and so took to the task with relish. The job turned into play and they dove in with a joy and enthusiasm as only children can.

My wife loves to come behind me after the heavy lifting has been done and offer her critique. This day was no different. As we were loading the last box into the trunk of the car, she came along and began poking through the boxes and bags offering suggestions. Many are the times I have wanted to tell her that suggestions are always welcome prior to the job and from those actually doing work. However, peace in my home demands that I simply smile and nod my head. The consequences of any other behavior could be disastrous. So as my wife dug through our booty of cast offs, I smiled and kept my mouth shut.

She then noticed two books in one of the boxes. One of the books my son had just received for his birthday, the other he had begged for until we finally relented. There they were being given away to charity along with old bikes, clothes that no longer fit and toys that are no longer played with. My wife grabbed the books and began scolding our son for being so cavalier with his things. “But, Mommy,” he protested. “That’s why I’m giving them away.”

It took a few moments for the words to sink in. Our son was giving away these books precisely because they had meant so much to him. It was his hope that the books would make their way into the hands of some boy or girl less fortunate than he and that they would enjoy it as he had.

Oh, to see the world once again through eyes unclouded by time and exposure to the world. What is it that robs us of our humility? Is it the pursuit of career? Failed romance? Successful romance? The need to pay that mortgage every month? But are we not children of God and will he not care for our needs as we care for our children’s needs? Should we not then be free to turn the job of giving into play?

All his life, our son has been told that the Christmas season is not about Santa Claus and presents under the tree. Rather, it is about the true spirit of giving; a spirit that is innocent, hopeful and sacrifices with enthusiasm and rejoicing. It is a spirit that is embodied in the story of a child born of the most humble means that grows up and gives what was precious for the benefit of others. Such is the kingdom of heaven.

My son understands that we don’t give from our bounty but from our hearts, which when filled have a limitless capacity to love.

He made me a proud papa that day. He also taught me that I still have a lot to learn.

Merry Christmas.

Joseph C. Phillips is the author of “He Talk Like A White Boy” available wherever books are sold.