In a few weeks most of us will begin Christmas shopping in earnest. Before the rush to find the ideal gift for your family help your children get in the giving spirit using a fun activity that also provides a gift box for a needy child. Our annual Operation Christmas Child program needs several hundred boxes containing small gifts for a little boy or girl to be distributed by Samaritan’s Purse. All gift boxes must be turned in no later than noon on Sunday, November 14. Use the following guide to turn the project into a teachable moment with your children.

1. PICK UP: Get shoe box from the Operation Christmas Child booth in the Foyer.

2. READ: Load the kids in the car for a shopping spree. Before starting the engine ask the youngest child that can do so to read Matthew 25:35–40. Explain that when we meet the needs of the poor we actually give a gift to Jesus!

3. SHOP: Head to the local discount store to shop for the items described in the Operation Christmas Child project description available in the envelope. Let the child select as many items as they can within the guidelines.

4. PRAY: After assembling the items in a box hold hands and pray together for whatever child will receive each of your boxes. Ask God to use this simple box to help someone better understand the love of Jesus or use the sample prayer provided in the envelope.

5. CELEBRATE: Take the child to the designated drop off location and give him/her a “high five” when the deed is done and then celebrate by enjoying ice cream, frozen yogurt or some other favorite dessert together.

• Going Further: Visit the Faith-Filled Holidays page to download a guide to this and other ideas to use throughout the holiday season. You can also download the free Intentional Holidays episode of our podcast and a holiday memory book template for the kids.