Blessings & Treasures

I love the way Thanksgiving and Christmas line up on the calendar. As we come to the end of the year, first we take stock of everything and give thanks. Realizing how truly blessed we are even in 'hard times'. Some years are easier, some harder. Regardless of your comfort level right now there are so many, many, many reasons to offer thanks and praise to God.

As we move from the humbling contemplation of how truly blessed we are, Christmas opens the door to intriguing opportunities. We look outside ourselves and find ways to see others and their needs. Our paradigm shifts from self to neighbor. We see physical needs and want to share our wealth to help them out.

Scott Raab, (http://ravenraab.blogspot.com), a missionary in Belgium and the Netherlands had a youth weekend where the youth put into practice their lessons on sharing. They spent time filling and decorating shoe boxes with gifts for those who don't usually receive them. After they were done filling the shoe boxes they spent some time reflecting on the weekend and thinking about what is really important to them. One of Scott's questions was. "Jesus says:Your heart will be where your treasure is. What are we really holding as our treasure?"
An inspiring thought, Scott.

This Christmas season, as we share physical gifts in the spirit of Christmas and brighten other peoples day, may we also share Jesus and brighten their life.

Blessings

Thanks

Who did you remember in your 'Thanks' giving?

Yes, it is important to give thanks for the food and stuff we have. And, it is imperative we give thanks for the people in our lives. Moms, dads, sisters, brothers.....and our mentors. People who have given of themselves so we might benefit. Letting them know how they affected our lives is gratifying for them and a reminder for us, we all need help and to help.

Of course the original giver should be the recipient of thank you upon thank you. God gave the breath of life to start it all,
and the gift of his sacrificed Son for eternal life to end it all.

Give Thanks!