What is a meaningful holiday gift for treasured friends? For many years, I attended a lovely Christmas luncheon hosted by my friend and co-author Ginger Jurries. As I look back fondly on this holiday tradition, I share it with you in the hopes that it will inspire you to connect with your friends this Christmas season.

Ginger was an excellent hostess. She would choose a theme at the beginning of each year and watch for key Bible verses surrounding the theme and for a story to tell. Then, as the luncheon drew near, Ginger shared the theme with her guests and asked them to consider sharing a thought on the selected theme.

On the day of the luncheon, as guests arrived and mingled, carols played to set the mood. Ginger would share a meditation on the chosen theme – perhaps a poem or her thoughts about friendship. Then, Ginger would share a story and prayer related to the theme. As we ate lunch each woman had a chance to share her thoughts on the subject.

Ginger always made sure to present her guests with a book or other small favor to remember the day and the theme. The event made for a very warm and meaningful girlfriend time. I personally felt that Ginger’s luncheon set the stage to gain a proper perspective on the Christmas season at the outset.

Ginger once told me, “I always pray for the Holy Spirit to give me a theme.” Here are the many themes that Ginger used over the years: 

• Angels
• God’s Grace
• God’s Surprising Presence
• Holiness
• Hope
• Joseph
• Journey to Bethlehem
• Joy
• King Jesus
• Light
• Peace
• Preparing for the Christ of Christmas
• Stars
• Wise men

Perhaps this luncheon idea will spark your own creativity for gathering with friends during the Christmas season. If entertaining isn’t your strong suit, you could invite friends to a local restaurant, or even do a virtual “Holiday Happy Hour” via Zoom. The important thing is to connect with those who are important to you, especially if you don’t get the chance to see them as often as you would like.

May God bless you with good friends with whom you can create a meaningful connection this holiday season. What a gift that would truly be!