"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." (Philippians 2:3-4) Christmas is always a constant reminder of putting others first but this should not just be something we do at Christmas.Who have you put before yourself lately? I challenge you to look for ways to have JOY in your life. Joy meaning, "Jesus fist, others second, yourself last." At Christmas there are many opportunities to do this but why not look around and you are bound to see someone who needs help or a friendly smile.
Some good examples of helping would be giving up your seat to an elderly person, opening a door for someone, taking your grocery cart and someone elses' as well back at the store instead of leaving them in the parking lot to ding someones car. You get the idea. You can of course put money in the Salvation Army kettles this time of year. Donate a toy to "Toys for Tots" and things like that. All around there are people to help, you need not look far.
A couple weeks ago I was in the post office where a long line of customers were waiting to mail packages and buy stamps. A worn out looking man was walking in as I was leaving and had what appeared to be a bill in his hand. He looked frustrated as he saw the long line and started to walk away. I said to him, " Do you need a stamp?" and then reached over and took off one the self adhesive stamps I had just purchased and stuck it on his envelope and said "Merry Christmas." This small gesture may have made his day. It was only 44 cents but saved this man a big hassle. I give you this example not to make me look wonderful but to give you ideas of ways you can help. They are always out there if you just keep alert for them.
PRAYER: Father God keep us sensitive to the needs of those around us. Help us have open hearts and show love to those you put in our path not just at Christmas but the whole year through. In Jesus name. Amen.
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