God... has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others.
Ephesians 2:10
Christmas is a time for giving. God gave us the greatest gift possible when he sent Jesus to be born in Bethlehem to take on our sins. Now it is our turn to give it forward to others.
God did not create us to live for ourselves. He wants us to make the world a better place. Every Christian is a minister. That means using our talents and gifts to make a contribution in life – to be a giver, not just a taker.
The Bible instructs: Love one another. Care for one another. Pray for one another. Encourage one another. Help one another. Counsel one another. Support one another, etc. It is the mutual ministry of every believer in the family of God. That’s the way God meant for it to be.
The Bible says that God “will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers” (Hebrews 6:10). He will reward you in eternity.
It is an especially good time to give during this holy season. There are many people who are alone at Christmas, or sick or injured. There are many people suffering. Look around you and see who might benefit from a gift from you. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It could a visit, a phone call, a card, or a kind gesture. We have many people in our parish who could benefit from your kindness this Christmas season.
Would you pass on God’s gift this holy season and reach out to others?
God bless you!
Elizabeth
