The True Joy of Christmas
Each person should do as he has decided in his heart — not reluctantly or out of compulsion since God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work..
2Corinthians 9:7-8
The Christmas shopping season is upon us! Whether we are going out to the mall or going online to shop, it brings a frenzied, stressful time in our lives. I’m not big on shopping – I rely heavily on my wife to get gifts for our family – but I love seeing others happy getting something that they love.
At CCDC we are seeing people who are so happy to receive the gifts of warm clothes and coats that have been donated. This past Wednesday we had a large number of donated items. We had them available to those who came to the parking lot at Westminster to receive their weekly hot meals. They were thrilled to receive the much needed warm clothing in addition to their meals.
Glenda came with no coat and only a thin covering. She was freezing in the cold temperatures. She has been regularly coming to CCDC so I knew that she has little to wear for winter weather. She got a warm coat and a beautiful heavy shawl. She went away beaming with a big smile. Everyone who received clothing was like Glenda who was so happy. They all are so grateful to come and “shop” at CCDC and find some of these essentials.
I don’t know any more joy than that which comes from giving, especially to those who are so needy. My spirits are lifted every time at CCDC.
I have to remind myself of this joy when it comes to my giving to charities. If I’m honest, sometimes my old nature tries to get me to give the minimum, even though I want to honor God with my finances. I have to think of Glenda and the joy she felt and the joy I felt seeing her in her new coat and shawl. This is the true joy at Christmas.
Paul in his New Testament letter shows he knew the joy in giving when he speaks of cheerful givers. We can’t help but feel cheerful when we provide for the needs of those who don’t have food and clothing. We receive back such joy when we give.
For the believer in Christ, giving comes willingly and joyfully. Why? Jesus gave his life willingly for us so that we might have the gift of eternal life. Out of gratitude to Jesus, we give to others, and, as Paul says, we give as a “cheerful giver” to others in need.
And in this difficult year 2020, we need some cheer! Be a “cheerful giver.” You’ll find the true joy of Christmas in helping those who are in need of the basic essentials of food and clothing.
Your donations of clothing and other items are much needed, and your financial gift for providing lunches and dinners will be doubled this month by the matching gifts of our board and other donors. If you haven’t given already, please consider some gift. We are grateful for any gift you can give. You’ll bring a lot of joy to others.
May God’s Peace be with you,
Pastor Jim and Debby Riley