If you celebrate the Birth of our Savior, this can be one of the most busiest times of the year. There are decorations to be placed, gifts and cards to be prepared, meals to be made, people to gather, events to attend … the list is endless.
It is also a time when many of us roll up our sleeves and try to fill in the gaps where humanity has left cracks, fissures and broken walkways, leaving behind those who are hit with devastating circumstances. Food, clothing and shelter. Bare essentials that far too many go without, leaving little room to celebrate.
On this day, let’s encourage one another to do the unfamiliar (and maybe awkward) task of getting out of our comfy surroundings and stepping into the world of giving of ourselves and sharing some Christ-like love to someone lacking in some bare essentials.
“The most precious resource we all have is time.”
Steve Jobs
Volunteering our talents, gifts and above all: time.
The King will answer and say to them, ‘I assure you and most solemnly say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it for Me.’ Matthew 25:40 AMP
There is something that we all can do. It need not be a huge production. You will not be required to go further than you desire. And you certainly will not have the demand to return put upon you. But do consider this: if not you, then who?
If your thoughts tell you that you have no job, therefore you have no money to donate or provide resources. I ask you to raise your hands and look at them. Now, stand to your feet and glance down at them. You are looking at two sets of ‘tools’ that can be used mightily for those in need. Maybe those hands can help serve in a soup line at a local park, recreation center or community center. And those feet could do miraculous work in the distribution of blankets and clothing on the streets through a local organization that is already organized for the activity.
If you’re able and willing to dig deeper within the well of your resources, take inventory of the hobbies you have and make them come alive for others. Maybe you are crafty with paper arts and can make holiday or greeting cards and give them away to those who can’t afford to buy any in the stores. If you’re talented in baking, sewing, candle or soap making, knitting, crocheting … consider donating these finished goods to people in your area that are having a rough season.
Become a busy mom’s personal grocery shopper and delivery person so that she can have the opportunity to rest from that task. Ask an elderly neighbor if you can clear and clean their yard for them, giving them a friendly face they can rely on seeing and you can check in on them during the cold winter season. Visit your local community center and volunteer for whatever activities are lacking extra help.
Take thirty-seconds today to pray about ways that you can share and shine the love of Jesus Christ during this season of celebrating His arrival to us by giving of time to those who cannot do for themselves. And in so doing, spreading the gospel of love and hope. Let this be the fuel that ignites your motives.
I love you to Heaven and Back, Girlfriend ~~
Titus Two 