Materialism during the holiday season can be spiritually and financially draining. While many suggest prioritizing experiences over material gifts, this approach isn't necessarily the complete solution Christians might think it is.

The distinction between experiences and things creates a false dichotomy. As God's image-bearers, we're designed as embodied creatures whose actions naturally involve the material world. Experiences require physical things, and things are only valuable through experience.

This trend of favoring experiences over possessions can lead to a subtle self-righteousness. Both pursuits can become forms of materialism if they're primarily focused on personal pleasure rather than glorifying God. As James 4:3 warns, we can "ask wrongly, to spend on [our] passions."

Instead of choosing between things and experiences, Christians should prioritize love in gift-giving. This can take various forms:

• Moderating consumption to give generously to the church and those in need
• Giving thoughtful tokens of affection
• Planning meaningful shared experiences
• Providing practical gifts that support personal growth
• Creating opportunities for relationship building

Remember, while both material possessions and experiences are temporary, "love never ends" (1 Cor. 13:8). Whether giving things or experiences this Christmas, let love be the guiding principle. Focus on glorifying God through your gifts, recognizing that everything we have and do can be used to honor Him.

Christ's incarnation reminds us that God values both the spiritual and physical aspects of our existence. Through faith in His life, death, and resurrection, we can use both material gifts and shared experiences to demonstrate His love to others.

The key isn't avoiding either things or experiences, but ensuring that whatever we give promotes genuine love and spiritual growth in our relationships with God and others.

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