Deuteronomy 15:11 NCV “There will always be poor people in the land, so I command you to give freely to your neighbors and to the poor and needy in your land.”
Sadly, there is a great need every day, but in general, we are more aware during the Christmas Season. I believe it’s the air; there is a unique feel that encompasses the month of December. Why? It’s because we celebrate the greatest gift of mankind. The beautiful gift of our Lord Jesus Christ. His spirit can be felt stronger; the music reminds us to be kind, family and friends, laughter, love, joy, and merriment. Crisp frozen snow rides to grandmas house we go, sleigh bells ringing, what a beautiful night!
Or is it? I also know Christmas can bring stress, worry, sadness, and makes being alone scream that much louder. I dislike the saying, past down through the years, “if you’re bad, Santa won’t bring you anything!” As a single mother of three, that simple line used to turn me inside out, fearing my children would think they were bad when the truth was mom was stretched beyond her means. Since the world is gung-ho on tearing down anything historical, let’s tear down that phrase. Please!!!
So, as a mother who used to get on her knees every year and pray for a blessed Christmas for her babies, who was blessed by the Lord each year. I would like to recognize those who carry the spirit of Christmas.
Thank you to the many churches, organizations and businesses that collect toys for underprivileged children in their area. The firemen and police officers who work tirelessly not only collecting toys but grandly delivering them. To all of you with extra means who take an angel or two off the tree of giving, and those who adopt families that help struggling parents provide joy on Christmas morning. The relief providers, the smile givers…
A special thank you to the many food banks and kitchens, who works year round making sure those who are hungry aren’t forgotten. The cooks behind the scenes who get up in the wee hours to start preparing for the hundreds that will pass through, empty plate in hand, so very thankful for the hot meal and a kind face. The school cafeteria staff still provide morning and afternoon meals daily for children who don’t have enough. The relief providers, the smile givers…
Most people in need don’t walk around with a cardboard sign, and it’s up to us to watch, pay attention, tune in to something other than ourselves and our agendas. The clues are there; I hope if you see one, you will do something. Our world is in a place we’ve never experienced, and we all feel a bit lost and slightly confused. The future feels scarier than it ever has, and there is so much need.
Thank you to all who recognize and step up to do something about it. May the Lord bless and keep you.
Be blessed and be a blessing! Thank you for joining me this morning. 🥰
Sunshine On My Shoulder 