Presents or Presence for Christmas?

Why Being Present Matters More Than Presents for Your Mental and Spiritual Health

The Christmas season often comes with joyful expectations — sparkling lights, festive music, cherished traditions, and the exchange of gifts. Yet for many, the pressure to find the perfect present can also bring stress, financial strain, and emotional exhaustion. As we prepare for Christmas Day, it can be easy to lose sight of what we are truly celebrating.

“At Christmas, we are reminded that God’s greatest gift was not a thing, but His presence among us: ‘And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us’ (John 1:14)."

When our attention becomes fixed on what is under the tree, we may miss the true meaning of the season and the life that is unfolding around us.

What if, instead of focusing on presents, we shifted our attention to presence — intentionally connecting with ourselves, the people God has placed in our lives, and the quiet joy woven throughout this season? Choosing presence over presents may be one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your mental health and your soul.

What Presence Looks Like

So what does choosing presence look like during Christmas?

• Put away distractions: Set phones and devices aside during conversations and gatherings so you can truly listen and engage. For me, this looks like putting away my phone instead of trying to get the perfect photo. This helps me be truly present rather than distracted.

  
  

• Practice mindfulness: Take moments to breathe, pray, notice your surroundings, and gently observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment. For me, this looks like hearing the story of the Nativity and putting myself in Mary’s shoes.  Mary was a teenager when she gave birth to not just any baby, but God!, in a humble and lowly stable in the middle of the dark, cold night. I am in awe by the strength of Mary, the Mother of God.

  
  

• Prioritize connection: Choose shared activities such as cooking together, playing games, going to Church as a family, or giving the gift of an activity over focusing on material things. For me, this means choosing gifts like going to the movies or taking family members to favorite restaurants rather than giving a gift card, toy, or gadget for Christmas.

  
  

• Manage expectations: Release the pressure for perfection — in gifts, decorations, or schedules — and allow space for imperfect but meaningful moments. For me, this looks like letting my kids wrap presents. It doesn’t look perfect but they are learning and helping along the way! Seeing the joy and pride they feel after they wrap a present is a gift to me.

  
  

The Real Gift

Presence is not just a nice idea; it is a practice that supports mental health, strengthens relationships, and nurtures lasting joy. It reflects a deeper truth of the Christmas season — that God chose to enter the world not through extravagance, but through closeness, humility, and relationships. 

This Christmas, consider giving — and receiving — the gift of presence. The peace we cultivate within ourselves and the love we share with others may be far more valuable than anything we could get underneath a tree. 

May God Bless You and Your Family with the gift of presence this Christmas Season!