As the Christmas season approaches, it is important to reflect upon the joyful mystery of the Christ Child entering into the world on that piercing cold night long ago. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) This reflection should spark a desire within our hearts to imitate His generosity and humility in giving us the greatest gift in human history: Himself made flesh. 

It is easy to forget this great mystery. Looking around, modern society tries to  accelerate the celebration of Christmas to the day after Thanksgiving, for its own profit and cultural agenda. Yet the liturgy that gives this holiday its name (Christ Mass), highlights the centrality of God's most personal entrance into human history. As we enter this last week of Advent, let's try to slow down a little bit more and prepare our hearts for the greatest gift we will ever receive, Jesus Christ, the Word made Flesh, our Redeemer.

As a pale reflection of the selfless gift of the Child Jesus, gift-giving is a good and true Christian practice, however distorted by the world around us. Here are some gift ideas for a friend or loved one,  that may help foster a love of Christ in true Christian spirit:

Classical books - books can help us elevate our minds to God. 

• Friends of the Cross (Louis de Montfort)
• Uniformity in God's Will (Alphonsus Liguori)
• Introduction to the Devout Life (Francis de Sales)
• The Advent Story (Cora Evans)

Courses on the Faith - education can equip us to properly defend the faith.

• School of Apologetics (Catholic Answers)
• Augustine Institute

Retreat - time away from everyday tasks can help us cultivate a deeper interior life. 

• Spiritual Exercises 
• St. John Paul II Healing Center
• Parish Retreat

Catholic Subscription - a monthly gift can help bring the timeline of the Church into our homes.

• Catholic All Year - Liturgical living box based on season of the Church
• Magnificat - Daily Mass readings and reflections for the Ordinary Form
• Benedictus  - Daily Mass readings and reflections for the Extraordinary Form

Artwork/Jewelry - whether adorned on a wall or worn , it can serve as an everyday reminder of the faith.

• Telos Art 
• The Little Catholic
• Rose Harrington

Candles - they can create a sense of the Sacred within the home.

• The Red Bird Whistle
• Mount Savior Monastery

Lastly, any gift given in celebration of the Christ Child is fitting not only on Christmas day, but also for the Christmas season. Therefore, be comforted anyone who is a "late" gifter and wisely put a prayerful recollection of the mystery of Christmas first amid the noise and distractions of the world! Merry Christmas and a Holy New Year!