Roy’s Ramblings
Over the holidays we watched some Christmas movies, and one movie that truly is a Christmas favorite is A Christmas Story. A story about a boy and the antics that happen around a typical boy’s life during the holidays. End of school before the break, dealing with winter, interaction with family and friends, and that ever-present desire for an: “official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200-shot, range model air rifle, with a compass in the stock and this thing that tells time.” What a gift that was, and would be, even for a youngster today.
So what did you receive over the holidays? When I was younger it was all about the material things – toys, games, bright and shiny, and CASH!!! But now, I look more forward to sharing with family and friends, good food and good stories, experiences far outweigh “stuff”. And so to drive the point home … what did you receive over the holidays?
Then you know the next question I’ll ask … what did you give away? No, I’m not talking about material things here either. Did you give away care, compassion, visits, memories? Maybe you were surrounded by folks who wanted to hear your history or your stories of yesteryear. Maybe you were able to make memories with good food and the joy of the season. Maybe you were able to travel just a bit and be at peace (giving away anger, anxiety, worry, stress).
So we are in a new year and the holidays are behind us – but we are still called to give gifts. So give the gifts that you can to the people that need them the most. Not necessarily only material things but spiritual, emotional, relational, and physical. Always remember: those that give will also receive – Proverbs 11
Be Blessed My Friends – And Be a Blessing to Others – Happy New Year!!
~Pastor Roy
