Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Bringing Thanksgiving to Christmas

"Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas...perhaps...means a little bit more!" ( the Grinch)
Okay, I know, its only November and we haven't even had Thanksgiving yet. But I wanted to put a bug in everyone's ear now. Many have already started their Christmas shopping or at least making lists... or mental lists. So, I received a World Vision catalog in the mail this week and it really made me stop and look at everyone's Christmas "Wish" lists. We all have stuff we would like, but really, none of here are in NEED. And if you asked, my list of Thanks is far greater than my Wish list. What if this Christmas, we look deep into our hearts, and do something with that money, that will HELP those really in NEED. Here are some great ways to help, and even get a little something for yourself. But, I have a feeling the cause will be far better for our hearts than another sweater would be.

  • If that isn't for you, fine... here are some other great ideas...
  • Have coffee drinkers on your list? Buy them some coffee from Ethiopia and support an adoption! Here is the story of Jim and Adrienne who after 2, count that 2! disrupted US adoptions, are now adopting from South Korea. They need to raise money for that... she describes how you can help, simply by purchasing company from this awesome place!
  • There is also, Aaron and Nicole Baarts personal organization, One Body, One Hope which is selling calendars, t-shirts and homemade goats milk soap, for a steal I might add!
  • And one more way, I think is a great way to teach your children about helping others is purchasing gifts for organizations such as Angel Tree, Salvation Army, or whatever local charities you may have. If possible, check into delivering these gifts as a family. I know it has made a huge impact in my own children's lives. It helps them to appreciate what they do receive each year, and it reminds them to take time to pray for those who aren't as blessed as they are.
If you are still reading, thanks! I know I put a lot of stuff out there! But, its something close to my heart. And I believe that no matter how rough our year has been, someone else's has been worse. And what better way to improve everyone's year, than by being a blessing to someone else.
God is Good, All the Time!

5 comments:

Bina said...

My Alicia,
you have SUCH a beautiful heart...while most of us are hardly even thinking that far ahead, you are setting out a simple reminder of where our hearts SHOULD be...

I praise God for you each day, my friend.
Many many hugs...
Bina

Cherie Hill said...

Hi Alicia...I love supporting World Vision...have you read the CEO's book, "The Hole In Our Gospel?" It's a FANTASTIC book! Truly a move to action in following Christ!
Blessings to you!
Cherie

Diane said...

I do support World Vision but your other ideas are great too. Thanks for sharing! :O)

Anonymous said...

These are some wonderful ideas! I sponsor a little guy in Ethiopia and sent him his Christmas gift (money) yesterday.

I am a huge coffee drinker so I will be checking out Adrienne's blog.

Beth Herring said...

Great ideas Alicia! We are such a blessed people and have need of NOTHING! It's about giving to others.

Great word here.