Giving the Gift of Christmas
Many of us are already out there hustling and bustling, looking for that perfect gift. Now that the black Friday and Cyber Monday sales are behind us, we might ask who’s next on our list? It could be Aunt Susie or cousin Johnny or Grandma Edna, whomever it is, I imagine it is probably not “Luck-Ran-Out Louie” or “Homeless Harriet”. I was thinking about some charities to donate to this Christmas season and it dawned on me that often times I give out of my surplus.
What do I mean by that?
Simply that I take care of my immediate needs first; my family, my friends, my co-workers and then whatever is left (if there is anything left), I give to the less fortunate. I know I don’t stand alone in this, I might be alittle more honest than others, but I think too many times the very ones who need the most are the first to be forgotten.
God has really been impressing on me this past year how blessed that I am. I may not live in the biggest house or drive the newest car or wear designer clothes, but without a shadow of a doubt, I am one blessed person. My refrigerator is never empty, my closets are over-flowing, my gas tank never runs out, and my roof protects me from any and all inclement weather. Not everyone can say the same thing.
I’m reminded of the time I went to Los Angeles and worked for a week at the Dream Center. (If you’ve never been, you need to go) It was here that I saw firsthand the life of the down and out, the addict on the street and the homeless living in a cardboard box. Oh sure, we see it here in the south where I live, but not as epidemic as in LA. This trip was life altering for me. That feeling of helping someone with a simple meal, or a warm blanket, or a heartfelt prayer is what I want to give for Christmas. What an amazing gift that each of us holds, but we just have to be willing to put it on our list and maybe sacrifice something for someone who is in greater need than ourselves or own family.
“Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.” (Matthew 25:45)
The ladies at our church are putting together “survival bags” for a ministry ministering to the homeless this winter. Each of us, instead of bringing a Christmas gift to our annual Christmas party will bring a gallon size ziplock bag full of items that can be passed out to those living on the street. Items like a toothbrush, mouthwash, gloves, crackers, raisins, socks, chap stick, etc. I am so proud of our ladies who are willing to do this. If you are looking for a way to bring a special gift of Christmas to someone, I have compiled a list of things that can help those less fortunate than us. I hope it helps you to give alittle bit deeper, spread your joy alittle bit wider and make someone’s Christmas alittle bit brighter:
KNOW YOUR CITY. Find out where the homeless hang out. Are there any fast food restaurants close by? When purchasing meal gift cards, make sure it is something in close proximity where they are.
LET YOUR KIDS SHOP. Use this time of giving to let your kids get involved. Let them know about the needs of those living on the street and take them to the dollar store and let them buy a “care package” similar to what our ladies are doing. Keep a package in your car all winter, to hand out if needed.
BUY $5 GIFT CARDS. Keep a few $5 restaurant gift cards in your glove compartment box, ready to hand out.
GIVE AWAY A BOX OF STAMPED CHRISTMAS CARDS. Even the homeless have loved ones somewhere. I’m sure they would love to hear from them. What a blessing for someone who cant afford to be home with their family to send a Christmas card.
HAND OUT A HAND WRITTEN CHRISTMAS CARD. Homeless people do not have an address, so, how can they receive any Christmas cards? What a blessing to receive a message of hope and love from someone who cared enough about them.
These are just a couple suggestions, what else can you think of?
As we remember our Savior this season, may we remember also those whom He came to hang out with and bless. The less fortunate. I believe that a difference can be made when we look beyond ourselves and our lists. May we all give the gift of Christmas.
BLESSINGS. Laurie
**you can read more of my daily devotions on my blogsite, www.womentakingastand.blogspot or follow my devotion page on facebook
Laurie,
These are wonderful idea. Thanks for being so practical and specific.
Katie
Thank you Katie. May we all find someone to bless this season.
What great ideas you have listed. Thank you for sharing them.