Christmas – A season of giving

Editor: At this time of the year our focus should be on giving rather than receiving. God gave us his son, Jesus. He gave us life. Many of us also have health and strength. All of us have the same amount of time. We think about what we should give, and who we should give?

Our time is a most valuable possession and while the amount we can spare may vary, it can be very meaningful to those whom we choose to spend it with. So, there is opportunity this season for everyone to spend some time to bring a blessing to others.

We can spend some time to pray for others that their needs would be met. Our family, neighbours, village, country, and workers will do better if they know we are praying for them and have their best interest at heart. Our good will and wishes towards them will reach them wherever they are.

Time spent cleaning and decorating the house and its surroundings is time well spent because the resulting beauty is a source of joy to those who appreciate order. Sometimes all it takes is the rearrangement of furniture and alternating the available curtains. The aroma created by fresh cooking and baking adds to the ambience and every effort should be made to allow everyone to participate. Some of us remember washing butter, greasing baking pans and grating ginger for the drinks.

Some may not realize how much a well-kept yard and its adjoining street lift the spirit of the neighbours and passers-by. We recall the best kept village competitions, the flowers that used to line the roadways of Mespo and the street lighting competitions.

Time spent listening to music of the season help to create a happy atmosphere. The radio stations and minivans must play their part also. Those who spend time to practice in choirs or music bands for special programmes at churches or concerts deserve our listening ears in attending the events.

Time spent on sporting events, at recreation parks and beaches is usually family time well-spent. Cleaning up before and after will enhance our appreciation for the environment. In some cases, we must spend time in maintaining these facilities and use our influence to ensure that they remain in pristine condition.

It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35), so let us give some of our time this Christmas.

Anthony G. Stewart, PhD