What is the best Christmas gift you’ve ever given? Do you remember the recipient’s expression as he or she opened it? Do you remember the feeling it gave you to know that you had just brought a little bit of joy to that person? Now, what if I told you there was a way to give a gift that is even more meaningful and that will impact numerous people at once—people who otherwise may not have anything to eat this Christmas?
With only a month until December 25th, it seems fitting to encourage you to remember those who are less fortunate this year. After all, we celebrate Christmas to remember the birth of Jesus Christ: God’s only Son who came to provide hope for the hopeless and eternal life to all those who would turn from their rebellion and follow Him. What better way to celebrate He who gave Himself to help us than to give a little of what we have to help others?
This year, as our food bank struggles to keep up with the demand placed upon it—especially during this particularly taxing Christmas season—let’s not forget to sacrifice a little of ourselves and donate a cart of groceries to help out. Or, let’s invite that neighbour who lives all alone to join us for our Christmas celebration. This Christmas, let’s spread some joy around our community.
Merry Christmas!
--Pastor Stephen Valcourt
This article was first printed in the Pincher Creek Echo
How would you think of God's role in your life if you struggled through and overcame crippling Polio, abuse, and a crushing injury that nearly killed you, resulting in the loss of your leg? Would you blame God for allowing these things to happen to you, or would you thank him for giving you the strength to overcome them? If you are Ken Hildebrand, you would give God the glory for his provision, protection, and power and for the testimony to God's greatness that you now have.
Unfortunately, we weren't able to get everything together to record Ken's testimony when he was at Abundant Springs this weekend, but all those who were there will tell you what an inspiring time it was. Ken directed me to a piece that was done about him for broadcast television. It really is quite the story, and though it avoids bringing Ken's faith into the equation, it is well worth watching.
We live in a technologically interconnected world. At the touch of a finger we can transport our ideas around the globe and communicate with people who are miles away. More than at any other time in history, people should have a sense of connectedness, yet it seems that just the opposite is happening. As we have traded deep and meaningful relationships for low-maintenance online “friendships”, many of us have driven ourselves into isolation. Some of you may object to this line of thinking and point to your seven hundred Facebook friends, thousands of Twitter followers, and successful Instagram feed as proof that you are not isolated. However, if you invited all these online friends to your home to help you get over a bad breakup or to help you move, how many of them would show up? A lot of us live in isolation and many don’t even realize it. However, there is a cure.
What if I told you that there are places in nearly every community around the world where you can build genuine friendships with your neighbours, where there are people who will find ways to help and support you through difficult times, and where you can receive love and acceptance? If you feel isolated, I encourage you to check out your local church on Sunday. I can’t promise that any church will be perfect, and I must warn you that real relationships can be messy. Nevertheless, the local church exists not only to celebrate the freedom that Jesus gives us, but also to provide a place where you can receive the love of God and find new friends.
