Christmas is almost here. In a little less than three weeks the preparations of shopping, wrapping, planning, gift-swapping parties, egg-nog drinking and stocking stuffing will come to a head. Wrapping paper will be ripped and tossed, and new possessions will either be hoisted above heads with exuberant thanksgiving, or become the victims of secret plots to re-gift or return.

But in the shadow of all this festive craziness–where carols and Christmas classics provide the backdrop to everyday mundanes like house cleaning and dinner prepping–there waits a humble but worthy opportunity to make Christmas about more than wish lists and high hopes.

In the spirit of the Savior who gave His life as the greatest gift, comes our chance to walk in His example and give of ourselves this season. The lists and methods of giving are so long and exhaustive, that every personality of any means can participate.

So while you’re out there buying gifts for loved ones, baking cookies for a party you plan to attend, or signing cards to send across the miles, take a moment to find a way to extend your generosity beyond your circle of friends and family. Because the spirit of Christmas is, after all, about giving!

Pictured above: ornaments from Angel Tree, a division of Prison Fellowship Ministries. This organization helps to provide Christmas gifts to children of prisoners while sharing about Jesus. There are giving and volunteer opportunities.