SHARE THE ABUNDANCE
Not that long ago, we celebrated the Advent season, a wonderful time of spiritual preparation, followed by the Christmas season, an often-hectic time of decorating, gift buying, cooking, baking and festive get-togethers.
Christmas is also a time when the contrast between rich and poor is ever so evident. Charities were working hard this year to fill the basic needs of the poor. An increasing number are the working poor; no matter how hard they work, they are unable to manage the cost of rent, bills, health care, and other necessities. Most of the charities came up short this Christmas, a trend that probably will continue as the need grows.
We all need to reach out and get involved in our communities, not just at Christmas time, but year round. The possibilities for witness and sharing are endless: kind deeds, compassion for our neighbors, “a cup of cold water,” sharing of our time and gifts in soup kitchens, homeless shelters, after school programs, Stephen Ministries, health ministries, mission work, church camps; the list goes on.
Let Christ be our example as to how we can share our love and faith with our neighbors and ensure that all are getting a place at the table. For I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted and justice for the poor.
Almighty God, help us to be good stewards of all your gifts and to share our abundance with our neighbors. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
