December 11, 2019

“Who is weak, and I do not feel weak?” – 1 Corinthians 11:29

Today as I was getting my hair cut my barber was telling me about a Christmas tradition that he and his family have. On Christmas Eve, they prepare bags with food and basic hygiene items. Then, on Christmas Day they drive around town and simply hand them out to any of the homeless people they see. He said that this always makes him appreciate how much he has been blessed over the past year.

His story reminded me that this time of year is not a season of joy for everyone. The homeless man on the corner holding the cardboard sign is probably the most obvious example, but many others are much better at hiding the fact that they struggle. There is hidden hurt all around us. So, I want to encourage you to intentionally think about the friends and family around you. Has someone lost a loved one recently? Do you have a new neighbor who has recently moved hundreds of miles away from family? Do you have a coworker who comes from a broken and painful childhood? Do you have a friend who is struggling financially? For these people Christmas can be the most difficult time of year. Therefore, take intentional time to think about how others might be struggling during this time. Then make intentional efforts to bring them the love and joy that we often take for granted.

Loving Father, You not only know our deepest hurt, but You have hurt for us. And through Your sacrifice You have brought us unspeakable joy. Let us truly feel the hurt of those around us and then empower us to bring them the joy that You have given us.

In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Shane Cannon