Christmas preparation – Your presents – 9 December 2009

Having sat with my children this evening as they browsed catalogues and reeled off lists, we talked about the fact they really do not need anything.  They already have all that they require – a home, food, a family, love, as well as plenty to entertain and educate them.  They need nothing really, and yet we still go on spending and providing new things.  We have talked often over the last few months about how we should focus more on the needs of those who have nothing, like  their brothers and sisters at Casa Reom, and think less about what we would LIKE and more about what those children NEED.

Can what you give this Christmas make a difference? Be challenged to think carefully about what you buy, if you still have gifts to purchase, and consider if you could buy something that could really make a difference rather than just bringing a short lived smile.  Giving alternative gifts is one way to do this, and I find it always gives me such joy to give something that I know will positively impact on somebody’s life for a long time to come.  At first it was a strange concept to not buy a gift but instead to send bricks or goats or loo seats, but now it is far more accepted, and ethical gifts like this really are a gift for life and not just for Christmas.  Even if you have already bought all of your gifts, why not add one more to the list, and buy something that will make a difference to somebody you’ve not even met – a gift for life.  There are Casa Reom gift certificates available, as well as other charities such as Oxfam who provide many ideas for alternative gifts.  Why not check them out today and give a gift to make a difference.

Lord, thank you that I need for nothing, as you are a God who is faithful and provides. Lead me to a way where I can make a difference this Christmas, and make my gifts work to your glory and to the benefit of those who are truly in need. Amen.