Do you ever struggle with finding the right gift(s) for family members? While some of you are "professional shoppers" (no names will be mentioned), most of us find it a yearly battle to find a gift that is useful, affordable and wont end up in a closet or a thrift store somewhere. Commercials are constantly encouraging us to buy jewelry, cars or even have steaks delivered to the home. in spite of all of this, want to five you three practical things you can give this Christmas. 

1) LOVE - Everyone is seeking it in some form and the good thing is that it doesn't cost. If our source of love flows from God, it should be a natural thing (1  John: 4:7-9). The world today is so lacking in it. Love demonstrates kindness but it goes much deeper than that. It is a desire to bless others and meet needs in the name of JESUS. Even within the body of Christ, it demonstrates that we are His followers (John 13:35)

2) TIME - We often think that giving is just opening our wallets or writing a check to meet a need. Often the thing people desire most is a little of our time. When we give time to call someone who has been sick or we stop in to visit a shut-in, we are giving of ourselves. When we give our time, we are giving of ourselves. A call of visit of encouragement is all that some people need to get through the holidays. 

3) SERVE - This applies for the entire year and is something God has called all of us to do. To find our place in the body of Christ and to use our spiritual gifts to serve others with the right heart motive, you will be blessed by the Lord (John 13:14-17). This can be volunteering at the Pregnancy Center, serving a meal at church, teaching children or helping with Disaster Relief or 1,000 other things.  

LOVE...GIVE...SERVE... it all flows out of a relationship wuth the ONE who loved us and gave Himself for us (Galatians 2:20). 




                                                                                                                                                                  - Pastor Carpenter