This Christmas I hope to emphasize giving more than receiving. Before I automatically throw the year-end appeals in the trash can, I would like to take a moment and pray about making a contribution. Personally, I am not always sucessfull in giving as much as I would like; but the times I do make the decision to give instead of receive, I am rewarded in countless ways.

 

Something about giving energizes our spirits. I am convinced giving is more the seasonal joy of Christmas than the receiving, and for that reason I would like to offer you some easy ways to enjoy the rewards of generous heart at Christmas.

 

Firstly, we have allowed out students the opportunity to adopt a family in need, buy a gift for them, and place it under the giving tree at the upper school. Food certificates, gas cards, toys for tots and other simple items will be donated by our school to specific families in need; and my guess is the smile on our face when we deliver these gifts will be broader than when we open our own.

 

Another simple way to give and receive joy is by writing a simple note or card to your teachers. I am always humbled when I take a moment to thank those who have helped me. When I sit and actually verbalize my gratefulness toward them, some cold part of my heart starts to warm. Teachers love notes of encouragement, and I for one, am overwhelmed at the generosity and support of our Teacher Appreciation Committee who so generously serve and bless our teachers. Specifically, thank you for those who gave them lunch time off these past weeks!

 

I have also invited many of our extended families to consider giving a gift to Christ Covenant School as a year-end blessing to our building campaign. Many of you feel strongly that our school should expand and continue building, and any gifts received by our families will be allocated for the next phase of growth to our capital campaign. I can say years from now, you may have more satisfaction from a thriving school than from another chia pet or instant pot. Click here to make a year end gift. 

 

 

Finally, a specific, simple way for out school to unite in giving is by signing up to feed people at the Greenville homeless shelter on January 3rd. This event is part of our plan to pick a monthly area of need and make an impact as a people. One of our seniors, Laney Rivera, has organized this opportunity, and I invite you to sign up here to bring a hot bowl of soup on the first Wednesday of the month when we return. It will be souper!

 

Giving is the heart of Christmas. May we enter into the joy and peace of blessing those around us out of the abundance gifts we have been given. Thank you.