The fun begins on December 14, and it’s better than turtledoves or maids a-milking! Each day from December 14-25, do one simple Christmas action project in Jesus’ name. With early preparation, most will take just a few minutes, but the impact will be great. You can do this with your kids, your small group, or individually.
Use these idea-starters to determine 12 projects that fit your interests, talents, budget, schedule, and community.
• Give gloves or a scarf to a needy person on a street corner. Keep the items ready in your car, with a Christmas note inside.
• Write a personal note to a relative you won’t see during Christmas.
• Buy a hot chocolate for the Salvation Army bell ringer or a construction worker on a cold day.
• Ask a nursing home if some residents might like to hear a reading of the Bible Christmas story. Read, chat about memories, and pray for them.
• Donate a new coat for a child in need, with a note in the pocket.
• When someone you know is sick, deliver soup and a note.
• Purchase a kid-friendly nativity set and give it to neighbor children.
• Visit a neighbor or friend who will be alone at Christmas. Take a thermos of hot water, tea bags, and cups to serve Christmas tea.
• Invite someone who doesn’t usually attend church to the Christmas Eve service or Christmas Sunday worship. Meet them at the door.
• Deliver a small homemade gift with note to your garbage truck driver, Sunday school teacher, pastor, school administrator, restaurant server, grocery bagger, town mayor, mail carrier, neighbor, etc.
Use your project list to gather supplies in early December. Make several simple homemade gifts, such as bookmarks, ornaments, paperweights, and Christmas cookies. Attach a note to each item, including the words “Made just for you” and “Merry Christmas. God loves you!” For some projects, include a church brochure or salvation tract.
Each day, prayerfully accomplish one project. As you make a habit of being kind to others in his name, a “me-me-me” attitude morphs into a “Happy Birthday, Jesus!” focus. What a concept! This sounds a bit like Acts 20:35b: “It is better to give than to receive.”
© Diana Davis, dianadavis.org