If you’ve ever talked me to me about shopping habits, you know I am passionate about two things: shopping frugally and shopping ethically. These practices take extra time and attention in a way that makes me consider them spiritual disciplines. I want to be conscious of how I’m spending our money and I want to be cognizant of where our products come from and how they get from point A to point Z (my house).

This is an ongoing process, probably never-ending. It’s a commitment I’ve made to shop in the direction of freedom.

Today, I invite you and your family into a practice I’m calling Gift-Giving with Intention.

As we gear up for the holiday shopping season, let’s explore how we could live with less and give gifts with intention. This might include how much money you choose to spend. It might mean intentionally shopping fair-trade, ethically sources stores like SEED (shopseedmarket.org). Maybe you’ll purchase one fewer gifts for all the people on your list and use that money to buy gifts for the local family we’re sponsoring for Christmas. (Click HERE to see their wish list and sign up for which items you’d like to contribute.) Or make it a family affair, and browse this year’s giving guide and allow everyone a certain amount to allocate for ICCM livestock or donations to Set Free.

One of my favorite family traditions has become the modeling our gifts after the three gifts the Magi brought to the boy Jesus. My goal is to select 3 gifts for each of us – one practical gift (myrrh), one spiritual gift (frankincense), and one extravagant gift (gold). I’ve also heard of families giving each other something we want, something we need, something to wear, and something to read.

Whatever you decide this Christmas, whether you spend a little or a lot, I pray you invite the Holy Spirit into your shopping. Give generously as Jesus gives, and seek first God’s Kingdom with every purchase.