A refreshing change

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! – 2 Corinthians 9:15

Starting each October, catalogs begin to fill up my mailbox advertising clothes, appliances, shoes, candles, books, music – more than I could ever need or want for myself or for loved ones at Christmas.

But one catalog I received last November was a refreshing change. It was filled with ways people could give to orphans, the poor, the hungry, the sick, and the disabled through an international Christian ministry. The note in the front of the catalog read: "Share the light and love of Jesus Christ with people whose lives are filled with darkness and despair." What a relief to think about something other than buying one more thing for someone who already has so much!

The Macedonian church was an example of generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-6). They gave themselves first to the Lord, then to those helping the needy in Jerusalem. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to follow their example and Christ’s, who gave Himself and "became poor, that [we] through His poverty might become rich" (v. 9).

Do you want a refreshing change this Christmas? Consider new ways to give yourself to the Lord and to those in need. It’s a meaningful way to thank God for "His indescribable gift" of salvation through His Son. – Anne Cetas

The gifts that we may give

And deeds that we may do

Most truly honor Christ

When self is given too. – D. De Haan

READ: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9

Giving is the true measure of love.

The Bible in one year:

• Ezekiel 33-34

• 1 Peter 5