It's Christmas! The most wonderful time of the year,
especially when we take time to serve and bless those around us. That's what
the true Christmas spirit is all about. This year, take some time to look at
all your activities and commitments and see how you might bless others, truly
making it the best Christmas ever.
1) Set an extra place at your table - There are people all around us who are alone at Christmas - newcomers, widowed, single parent families, etc. Look around you for those that you can invite to be part of your Christmas dinner. For those struggling with loneliness during the holiday season, this can mean everything.
2) Party with a
purpose - Make your holiday parties significant by turning your Christmas
party into a serving project. If you host an "Ugly Sweater" party have your
guests bring new clothing items to donate. If you have a party for families and
children, have them bring a new unwrapped toy. Pick an organization and have
people bring a donation instead of a hostess gift, and donate that money to a
charity. Your time celebrating with friends will become really meaningful as
you collectively bless others around you.
3) Pay it forward
Go out and get some gift cards to keep with you over the
Christmas season. Use these cards to meet the needs you see around you, or to
simply bless people with a surprise. There is nothing like a random act of
kindness to bless someone's day. It won't be forgotten! Think of some acts of
kindness that don't cost money, but just require a smile and go the extra mile
to make someone feel special.
4) Bless your
neighbors
Studies show that more and more we don't know our neighbors, and people in our communities are becoming more and more isolated. Reach out to those who live beside you during the Christmas season. Bring them a plate of cookies, or a small gift and start the journey towards friendship and community.
5) Creative Care
Packs
In most of our city centers there are people who are living on the streets, just struggling to survive. Make up some care packs that you can keep in your car during the Christmas and winter season to bless those that you come across who are in need. In your care pack include items like: bottled water, energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, mittens, hand warmers, basic toiletries, gift cards for food, etc. Bless with these basics that can help those struggling.
We can't do it all, but everyone can do something. Choose
one new thing this year that you can add to your Christmas traditions that
involves reaching out and blessing those around you.
Have fun as you serve!