Years ago, a few friends of our and my family decided to take what we would have spent on our ourselves and own family for Christmas and bless a family that really needed a Christmas blessing.

We found a family in North Gardens Virginia that fit! A Grandmother was raising 3 very young kids, who were the children of her drug addicted daughter. They were living in a house that consisted of two rooms, dirt floors and no insulation. The kids did not have warm clothing and this precious grandma was at her wits end.

We were able to find the kids names, sizes and needs. We pooled our monies together and also went to some of the local grocery stores and told them about what we were doing. Many donated some food and others gave us fantastic pricing. We wanted to bless them more than just for one day, but at least 6 months worth of food and supplies. This was our goal!

Anyway, in the end we delivered a large pickup truck load of gifts, another huge load of food. Our families got together and wrapped each gift, like we would for ourselves. Name tags and all!

I remember the brown eyed, curly hair, about 5 year old girl. She was helping me carry in the gifts and happened to see the name tag had her name on it. "Emily"! She said, "Wow, is this for me?" I replied with yes! Then she said, "Do I get to keep it?" Yes sweetheart!
The entire time the grandmother had rivers of tears flowing down her cheeks. We presented her with a nice bible and prayed with her.

It really is more blessed to give than to receive! Many of the things we give and receive ourselves go in a closet or drawer, rarely, if ever enjoyed or used.

Why not make this Christmas the best Christmas ever? Someone in your neighborhood, someone who may not even have a meal.
Next weekend we will minister to over 80 children and their parents. For about $1 per child, we could make a difference in their Christmas! We will be telling them about Jesus!

We have, in our neighborhood (We are in the Philippines), some extremely poor. $20 will purchase a bag of rice (55 pounds) that will feed a family for over a week. Whether here or in your own area, let others see the real meaning of Christmas.

I know it is very early to be speaking of Christmas. But it really is not too early to plan. I can still see the beautiful little girl and remember the joy. What a great thing to teach our kids, not about receiving, but about giving. This will have a lifetime of benefits for your children and generations to come with you heritage.

God bless!
Daddy William