It's a beautiful, special time of year. A time to celebrate, give, enjoy friends and family and remember the wonder of why we even have this magical time of year: Jesus is Christmas.
We may choose to celebrate in dozens of different ways; stockings, singing, sleigh-rides, significant parties, or even just simply relaxing. Through it all, if you're like most people I know, you want to remember to think outside of yourself - - even outside of your regular circle of loved ones. We all want to be givers at Christmas.
So, I looked through the web at a small number of the worthwhile organizations that are familiar to me. I found ways that we can reach a bit deeper at this time of year and give to make some lasting difference to children and families that know absolutely nothing of the Christmases you and I are privileged to know.
Compassion Children's gift fund, enabling every sponsored child to receive a gift this Christmas.
Food for the Hungry gift catalogue: for someone with everything and someone with nothing.
Invisible Children: watch this great video and learn that shopping is a cinch!
Blood:Water Mission makes it possible to give a family a safe-water filter this Christmas.
Children's Hope Chest can help you support orphans while giving fair-trade coffee for Christmas.
World Vision brings meaningful gifts to children and their families. Check out their great gift catalogue.
I invite you to take a few moments, and see where you can give - - whether it's now, specifically in December at Christmas or any other time of year. Giving should be a part of our lives year-round - - it's just a little more contagious this season.
Enjoy. And have a very joy-filled, Jesus-centred Christmas.
