Blessed Giving

"I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' " Acts 20:35 NKJV

It is at this time of year that I begin to think about what Christmas really means. Every store I go in - whether to pick up laundry detergent, ink for the printer, or milk - is clothed in sparkles, decorations, garlands, gift ideas, and Santa. I often wonder, "How did we get here? How have we as the human race (and especially Christians) gotten so far from the truth of what Christmas is about?" These thoughts challenge me to think about Jesus and His purpose and mission while He walked the dirt pathways of this earth and the mission He left all His followers with.

Jesus did not take, He gave. He was not a recipient, but a server. He left His home in heaven and became one of us that He might know the trials and temptations we all face. He ran with sinners and lowly people whom the religious people of the day didn't have time for. He didn't even have a place to lay His own head.

Christmas means different things to different people. What does it mean to you? The disaster in the Philippines makes me wonder if it is truly in our best interests to spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars on ourselves. What if we each took even a percentage of that money and gave it to them? Would it make a difference? What if we all did it in the name of Jesus, a gift for Him this Christmas? What if we opened our eyes to those around us and saw those in need around us and gave of ourselves this year to make a difference in someone else's life? Would that please Jesus?

Need some ideas - volunteer for a food bank, homeless shelter, or soup kitchen; give of your time and resources in your community to help the organizations that are there to fill the needs of those who are less fortunate (examples: Red Cross, Salvation Army, YMCA, Teen Challenge, pregnancy clinics, volunteer at the hospital or nursing home, rehab. centers, reach out to a family in need and provide Christmas for them...). There are many ways we can give of our time, money, and other resources.

I challenge you to begin praying about what you can give Jesus for Christmas this year. It is His birthday we are celebrating. Listen carefully for His still, small voice and give to the One who gave everything for you. May He bless you abundantly as you step out in faith and obedience.

Blessings,
Natalie