Helping others at Christmas

Dear blogging friends and family,

I do hope you read from the other day (LINK), even though it isn't a pleasant topic to read — sadly it is happening to many many women and it is something we all need to be aware of. 

All to often people shut their front doors and pretend there isn't any pain and suffering going on elsewhere, there is and it could be in the house next door to you. And for many this is the time of the year they really struggle. It isn't just women in miserable marriages, Christmas is tough for many others too. It isn't all tinsel and presents for quite a few in our community and its important that we remember this and try and do something to help.

Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:31)

— the poor, who struggle to make ends meet during the year find it even harder at Christmas. Their stresses increase as they try to provide for their families and buy gifts they cannot afford for their children. Why not donate gifts or food to a local charity so those less fortunate can enjoy the festive season. Ever thought of helping out at a soup kitchen which help the homeless. 

— the unemployed who are feeling demoralised because they can't find work and provide of their families and at this time of the year it can be so difficult being happy along with everyone else when things are feeling so down. 

— the elderly, who are so often on their own or forgotten about as the younger one's race about doing their thing and not stop to think about those who are getting older. Don't forget to phone or drop in to visit someone elderly, you will make their day. Send a card or a small hand made gift and they will be so grateful. Why not bake some cookies. 

— those feeling unwell or suffering anxiety or depression, this is often a really bad time as they struggle to get to "get into the mood" that is expected of them at Christmas-time and feel even more lonely even when they are surrounded by friends and family. Do keep a watchful eye for those who are feeling sad, often they just need a hug and someone to listen. 

Christmas is not about gifts or money or eating lots of food — I know thats the focus we are told it should be, but it isn't. This time of the year should be about giving, loving, being kind, generous, caring and joyful. Ok, that is what it should be 365 days of year and Christmas shouldn't be any different.

So, as we go into the last few weeks of 2015, the maddest time of the year — reach out to others, give a hug, pray for those in need, lend a hand, make a casserole for a family who might be struggling, offer to babysit for a mother looking weary, donate to charity. There are so many ways we can all reach out and make a difference and really, isn't that what Christmas is about. 

This is the time of the year to put others first and not ourself. 

Thanks for stopping by

Finding joy . . . it is everywhere you look, just start looking.

Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.

Philippians 2:4