God first — Whitney Mariel

This year has felt… different. The economy is tough, prices are higher than ever, and so many families are feeling the pinch. SNAP and food stamp programs have ended for many, Medicare and Medicaid have shifted, and groceries and gas don’t stretch the way they used to. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed — to feel like the joy has been squeezed right out of the season.

But maybe this is the moment we all need to pause. Maybe this is our reminder that the holidays were never meant to be about stuff anyway. Let’s rewire our brains from the hustle, the spending, and the pressure to “keep up.” Let’s come back to what the holidays have always been about; spending time together, thankfulness, connection, love, laughter, and the simple joys.

Because even when money is tight, the moments that matter most are still completely free.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” — Matthew 6:19-20

Ways to Celebrate Without Spending a Lot

You don’t need fancy plans or pricey gifts to create holiday magic. Some of the best memories are made in the smallest, simplest moments.

Host a cozy night in: Grab your favorite blankets, make popcorn, and stream holiday movies. Bonus points if everyone wears matching pajamas.
Do a potluck dinner: Have everyone bring one dish to share. It’s less pressure and more fun.
Go see the lights: Take a drive through decorated neighborhoods, play Christmas music, and sip hot cocoa in the car.
Craft your own decorations: Paper snowflakes, salt dough ornaments, or garland made from popcorn and cranberries.
Start a new tradition: A gratitude jar, a game night, or reading the Christmas story together. Simple things that make the season feel special.
Volunteer together: Serve at a shelter, donate canned goods, or bring cookies to your local fire or police station. Giving your time is one of the greatest gifts of all.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” 1 Peter 4:10

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16

Ways to Give Without Spending Much

You don’t have to shop big to give big. The most meaningful gifts often come from the heart.

Bake something sweet: Cookies, banana bread, or fudge wrapped with a handwritten note.
Make something: A handmade ornament, a candle, a painted mug, or a playlist that reminds you of your friendship.
Write a letter: Tell someone how much they’ve meant to you this year. A few heartfelt words can mean more than anything money can buy.
Thrift it: Secondhand treasures have so much charm and story. Thoughtful, sustainable, and affordable.
Acts of kindness: Offer to babysit, run errands, or bring someone coffee. Love shows up in the smallest gestures.

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” — Proverbs 11:25

Holiday Help Highlight: Aldi’s $40 Thanksgiving Meal

If you’re hosting this year, Aldi is offering a complete Thanksgiving meal for just $40. turkey, sides, and all the trimmings to cook at home. It’s proof that you don’t need a big budget to create a beautiful, love-filled holiday meal.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19

A Gentle Reminder

Maybe this is the year we slow down. The year we let go of the hustle and fall back in love with the heart of the season. Because when you strip away the chaos, what’s left is what matters most, connection, laughter, togetherness, and gratitude. The things you can’t wrap, buy, or put a price on.

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” — Romans 12:10

“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14

Let’s make this a season that feels full, not because of what’s under the tree, but because of who’s around it.