The Christmas season is often a colorful blur—a whirlwind wherein many gifts are given, food seems to be abundant (even the unfortunate fruitcake makes an appearance) and we become consumed by the hustle and bustle of it all. However, many of us tend to lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas and why it goes so much deeper than egg nog and pretty lights.
Christmas is an opportunity to reflect upon the many blessings given to us by a loving father. In fact, it is the time when we come together with one voice to give thanks in celebration of God’s ultimate gift to humanity—the birth of his beloved son, Jesus. In that gift, God gave us a glimpse of his undying love and taught us an important lesson in how to walk in his steps. Forgiveness, encouragement, hope, blessings, healing and salvation—giving is simply what God does best.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
In that spirit, my church continued in its tradition of something called The Giving Tree. It is an opportunity for those who have much to provide for those who have little (or none). It is also a chance to share the joy, love and generosity of Christ with others who may not yet understand the depth his caring.
Instead of fancy ornaments, the tree is adorned with many different colored cards, each representing a child or family in need. Members are encouraged to find which one(s) speak most clearly to them, and help give of themselves to fill the requests on those cards.
Ranging from infant to 18 years old, the requests are broad, yet touching. Some families asked for toys or games. Others asked for clothing and school supplies. One request was for a child who was trying to save for college. All of these cards—all of these needs—came from people just like you and me who for whatever reason have found themselves in uncomfortable and unfortunate circumstances. This past year has been tough on so many, and the need for hope in these times was quite evident.
This year, people’s hearts were opened wide with generosity, as over 450 cards were adopted by caring members. That’s 450 people whose lives were affected by the kindness and compassion that should be the cornerstone of this holiday season. Through this kindness, we are all able to extend God’s love to others by being his hands, feet and caring heart.
Perhaps one of the unforeseen blessings of this Giving Tree is found not just within the boxes and bags bearing gifts, but more in the love that wraps it all up. The gifts themselves may pass away or become outgrown, but the memory of knowing that someone cared enough to be there in times of need will be a true, lasting gift. The tree represents the result of planting seeds, growing from something small and unassuming into something grand and beautiful. By meeting the needs of those whose names adorned the Giving Tree, we were planting God’s seeds into people’s lives that will hopefully grow in amazing ways.
The old adage that it is better to give than to receive cannot be more true. For in giving, we actually receive something unexpected. We get the slightest taste of the joy that our father must feel when he gives great gifts and meets needs.
Fas long as we are on this earth there will be those who are in need. Whether it’s helping locally by making Christmas special for a child, or by helping provide goats and chickens to families in Africa, there are always great opportunities to be a blessing to others.
Merry Christmas!
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