Its Better

When I was young, I was taught it is much better to give than to receive. I knew it was true......... but I liked to receive. What kid doesn't like to receive?!? Some kids are givers, but not as a norm.

Now that I am "old and gray", I realize I have been blessed by God far beyond my imagination. Way more than I deserve or could have imagined! From family to friends, church and job to possessions, God's grace abounds in my life. This year I have been privileged to be part of some "new things" God is doing, and His fingerprint is obvious.

We have always tried to give as a church at Christmas, but this year is different. We didn't make such grand plans like an Angel Tree, but God had plans. Instead of giving families a Christmas meal, God brought us many families that we have been able to bless with a whole box of Angel Food.

God opened a door this fall for us to start a partnership with a local elementary school. We wanted to serve our local community to make an impact for Christ in an important way, and God opened the door. The principle emailed me this past week to make an appointment to discuss how we can help them. She is truly excited that a church cares. One or our goals next year just might be to bless each staff member at the school with an Angel Food Box. They have already asked us to partner with them on a parent seminar night this spring. We've been asked to help with kids and even lead a seminar. How does that happen apart from God?

We have been looking for people of peace, that will open doors and let us serve in the name of Jesus. The doors are opened. Our Christmas Eve service is another example. We decided to take the service to the community. That's were Christ is needed and who He died for. An unlikely door opened. Lake Carolina opened the doors to let us in. It is a very closed community, and this was a surprise to us. They have advertised for us, and are letting us have the prominent banner location at the front entrance the week of the service. God paved the way!

I am excited that God is bringing us opportunities to give, serve, and share! Its so much more incredible when you don't have to look and you don't have to wonder. If you are open and available, God will give you big opportunities to share Christ in practical ways!

Go and serve in His name this Christmas.