Merry Pandemic CHRISTmas!
We just celebrated my all time favorite holiday - Thanksgiving. Yet, the CHRISTmas season is extremely special too, but not for the reason(s), you might think. I love CHRISTmas because it is the celebration of the birth of Jesus. There are some who like to question the birth date of Jesus, but I could care less about the actual date, because a holiday where Jesus is the celebrated is the best gift ever!
I come from a family of great cooks and even greater eaters, so no matter what we celebrate, there is always lots of wonderful food. Add to that, all of the decorations, lights and wonderful surprises that just bring joy. As a mother, I was never one to go overboard with gifts for my children during CHRISTmas. I would tell them, "It is Jesus' birthday, not yours." They would get three gifts because they were taught, that Jesus got three gifts, so that should be enough (Matthew 2:11).
Of the three, which they would love, they had to select one to give away to a child their age. Making that decision was difficult, since most years, they got what they wanted. So, at a young age they learned to give up or sacrifice something they really wanted for a child their age who was less fortunate. Over the years, there were some seasons when things were difficult in our family. Gifts were not as accessible, but because of the earlier lessons, getting gifts was a bonus. To this day, both understand sacrificing for others is the greater gift, and I am proud to say, both have very compassionate spirits. As long as we celebrated Jesus - had good food - with family, we enjoyed ourselves!
Many lives look nothing like they did back in 2019. So many people are no longer here. Some have lost jobs, stability and health. Those who were once secure, now wonder where they will live or where their next meal is coming from. So as we celebrate another "pandemic CHRISTmas" remember those who are less fortunate. My challenge is to open your eyes and see. You may never know what is really going on behind the hellos or smiles. Those viewed as strong will rarely share their challenges, because that is their role in the lives of others. It is up to you to see them through your eyes of wisdom.
So here is a holiday challenge just for you! When you think of a person this season, regardless of how "you feel" about their lives, do something nice for them. Give them the beautiful and sacrificial gift that you love. Make their season as bright as yours. Find out who or even better what, is really needed and just bless them. Better yet, they don't even need to know where it came from. Jesus said, to "give secretly and He will reward you." Help when needed is always appreciated, no matter when it arrives.
You may be one of the fortunate ones who have not felt the weight of the pandemic season, then sow an even bigger seed. In case you are wondering how to help, consider paying someone's mortgage, help a family catch up on their rent, pay a car note, insurance, or utility bills. And remember, when giving food gifts, allow them the dignity to select what they love by getting gift cards to grocery stores. These are impactful gifts that can instantly alleviate stress and allow others to enjoy the holiday season. Jesus is the reason for the season, so let's do what He would do, reach out and help others. "Be the hands and feet of Jesus this year!"
