Perhaps you’ve survived Black Friday (or should I say Black Thursday for you who started early on Thanksgiving Day?)! As retailers drive us to start the Christmas buying frenzy earlier and earlier each year, I want to remind you of the importance of reaching out to others. We have been reminded through pictures in the news of the devastation of those who lost their homes during national and international natural disasters. Still, merchants and retailers would have us forget there are many who are less fortunate.
Gotham’s Newest Hero
If you are like me, you may sometimes think all is lost when it comes to people thinking of others. That’s why I must tell you about a wonderful thing that happened in the city of San Francisco. More than $105,000 was spent to turn this city into the comic-book city of Gotham. 13,000 volunteers streamed the streets as television cameras covered Miles Scott, a young, 5-year-old leukemia survivor who was able to have his wish come true.
What was his wish? It was to become Batman. With the aid of the Make a Wish Foundation, little Miles received his wish. He was able to seize the world’s attention as his special day was captured on video and shown on YouTube. Kudos to the city of San Francisco for making this wish come true. This city reminds us that there are still people in the world who can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
How to Be an Everyday Hero
Perhaps you are saying, “But I don’t have anywhere near the resources that were available to the city of San Francisco. I’m only one person! How can I make such a difference?” Remember differences are made on a daily basis, usually one at a time. You and I may have the opportunity to spend some time this Christmas with a lonely widow. You can share your family and create a special day for them. Soup kitchens can always use volunteers. It doesn’t matter how much money we have to give; what is important is doing what we can for others who are in need. Make giving of yourself a family project, and you and your children may discover what is really important during the celebration of Christmas.
Why such a reminder to the Body of Christ? Why not? After all, what is rare among unbelievers ought to be the norm among believers.
These random acts of compassion may not reach the media. They might not even be viewed as any more than ordinary. But if you were on the receiving end, the impact could be huge. What happened in San Francisco was remarkable, but you can also do something remarkable this Christmas when you share the love of Christ by your kindness to someone less fortunate. Did you say that you want to reach others for Christ? Then demonstrate Christ’s love to them so they are open to receive Him!
Merry Christmas!
By Dr. L.W. Edwards
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