As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, John 3:16 informs us “Because God so loved the world, He gave His only-begotten Son”; The Christmas story revolves around the act of giving.

Our heavenly father gave; therefore, shouldn’t we follow his lead and give? I am suggesting three areas we should consider:

l First, we need to give our time to others. Time is a resource we cannot squander, yet using it to assist others during this holiday season is not a waste. Jesus willingly came from heaven to give His life for us. Why can we not give of ourselves to help others? Consider what is happening with the people around you. Provide your employees with something tangible to take home during this period. As a nation, we must make the elderly our friends. They may be spending Christmas alone; a little of your time in a retirement home could make their holiday more enjoyable. Visit a patient at the hospital who has no visitors. Invite someone to lunch on Christmas day and share the blessings of love and peace with them. We can also volunteer to assist with the rehearsals for the Christmas program at our church.

l Second, we can bless others with our God-given abilities. We have many talented Vincentians who may not have material possessions to share, but they may bring joy to others by singing or playing an instrument.  On the other hand, individuals can use their gift of speech to speak for those unable to do it themselves effectively. 

l Finally, let us give our resources. When facing adversity, one tends to firmly hang on to one’s resources. It is necessary to assist others. People who died wealthy are rarely remembered, but those who sacrificed for others are rarely forgotten. Consider individuals like mother Theresa, a woman who made sacrifices for many; the world remembers her today. Jesus Christ sacrificed His life for many, and we celebrate His birth today. Let us use our resources to assist someone with their home construction projects. Donate food, blankets, and clothing to the homeless.

Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing out of conceit or selfish ambition. Instead, value people above yourself with humility”; I believe. If we respect others, we will behave differently toward them.

On behalf of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines District, I declare that Vincentians will have a peaceful and loving Christmas and New Year.

Presiding Bishop of St. Vincent and the Grenadines District
Bishop Stephen Ollivierre