The Seventh Way of Christmas
TIME -
Our days and hours are precious to us. Once they are gone, you can never get it back. How can you give your time and attention today? Maybe you can call someone who needs a listening ear or silence your phone to give someone your undivided attention.
Time: A daily treasure which attracts many robbers.
The Sixth Way of Christmas
PATIENCE -
Sometimes we reserve our kindest actions for strangers, while letting ourselves deal irritably with those who live with us. Today, find a way to bless your spouse, child, parent, sibling, or co-worker. Tell them how much you love and appreciate them.
The Fifth Way of Christmas -
Do you know a small business owner who is struggling to make ends meet? Especially since the pandemic has affected so many businesses? Make it a point to stop by their store or order a meal from their restaurant. Give an extra tip to someone in the service industry. Help those who may be struggling as a result of a difficult year.
The Fourth Way of Christmas
DONATE - During this time of year, we tend to donate to charities. But what if we donated throughout the year? Making a quilt for someone who has lost everything. Or pillowcases for children in the hospital. Making masks for the mailman or delivery person. There are always needs for monetary donations. St. Jude's Children's Hospital, the Hospice Foundation or any other ministry you support. It truly is more blessed to give than receive.
"But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing." Matthew 6:3
The Third Way of Christmas
CARE - The needy are all around us, and we are often called to care for them. Consider a way you can help today. Ask about how you can volunteer to serve. Whether it's Meals on Wheels, or sharing a ride to a Doctors appointment. Give canned goods to a local food pantry or buy a gift card for someone who is struggling. There is always someone who can use a helping hand.
The Second Way of Christmas
"The Twelve Days of Christmas" historically did not reference the days leading up to Christmas, but the twelve days following it. The period begins with birth of Christ on December 25th, Christmas Day, and ends with the coming of the Three Wise Men on January 6th, the Epiphany or Three Kings Day.
But today we will start to share the 12 Ways of Christmas, and how we can share love.
1. GRATITUDE - Saying thank you is a gift in itself, but putting our appreciation into writing can be even more meaningful, especially during this year when so many have faced loneliness and confinement. Who can you bless today with a card or letter of thanks?
