Simple Thoughts for a Complex World

Tis the Season, but not for ALL
Christmas is here again, with a Santa Claus on every corner and at every mall. Twinkling lights with blue, green, and gold decorations everywhere. But why is the Christmas season the most depressing time of year? And the depression seems to be getting worse. Many families have money, credit cards, and savings to blow through, but many do not, mine included. So, when does the joy start? Fighting crowds at the mall, standing in line, jostling for position to get that perfect shirt, to give it to someone with drawers full of shirts. To quote the Grinch, “The Madness never ends!”

In Luke 6:38, we are told, “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap; the amount you give will determine the amount you get back” (Bible Gateway Passage: New International Version, 2011, Luke 6:38 section). Too many assume this refers to money; it only includes money, not just money; you can give happiness. Happiness is given by providing a plate of food to a shut-in, serving in a soup kitchen, and making an effort to greet an uncomfortable guest at church. Make a gift basket; it doesn’t have to be large and place it at the door of a random stranger. Love does not have to be expensive; just an expression of concern.

The lights will twinkle a bit brighter, the carols sound more joyous, and the warmth that spreads through you will drive away even the coldest winter night. Make a basket from your pantry, fill it with canned goods, put a bow on it, and take it to your church; if you don’t know who needs it, believe me, they do. There is a need all around, and YOU have love to give.

Merry Christmas to everyone; I pray you feel the love, hope, and cheer this season.

“It is better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness.” Eleanor Roosevelt