Happy third day of Christmas!
Yes. Many of us know that the twelve days of Christmas officially start on December 25th! Today on the third day I hope no one has received french hens unless of course, you are having a savory meal.
Although our normal celebration of Christmas has ended the twelve days of Christmas remind us that the giving never ends!
This Christmas I was struck most by a gift given to us, FUMC Miami and the motivation for the gift.
As many of you know a group of us went caroling at Epworth Village. The Monday prior to caroling we were tallying up the connect cards to see who had signed up and not many had officially committed. At that point, Gerard offered to reach out to an online platform for singers in Miami and inquire if anyone wanted to volunteer with us.
Much to our surprise, a young woman came out to sing with us. She had the most beautiful voice and a matching smile and spirit about her. When I asked her why she came out she said that she likes to volunteer during the holidays but particularly she wanted to volunteer at a nursing home since she once lived in a nursing home for six months while recovering from an automobile accident. She said she knew how much it meant when she had visitors or special guest.
This young woman was a total stranger to all of us, even Gerard. I am proud of our church providing the platform for her to serve. I am also so touched by her compassion and giving!
This week as we start prepping for the new year I pray that each of us might find a way to serve that is particular to our story. Maybe your mother was abused and you want to volunteer at Lotus House? Maybe your uncle is homeless and you want to volunteer with the homeless ministry?
“Jesus said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35
This New Year let us find ways to give that we might be blessed and God may be glorified!
See you on Sunday!