Jesus said, “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.’” Matthew 25:40 (RSV)

One Christmas, my daughter and I were alone. A church friend who worked at an assisted living facility, announced they were having a Christmas Party for the residents and could use some help. We volunteered.

We helped with their gift giving, games they played, and assisted shaky hands while they ate. (Shaky hands and Jello presents a real challenge.) We glued, taped and stapled as they made a Christmas craft and then we all sang Christmas Carols. After one ice cream accident, we decided ice cream was good enough to wear. It was a wonderful afternoon. You could not wipe the smiles off our faces.

After a most rewarding day, we went to a Chinese restaurant for dinner—the only place open on Christmas Day. We shared and laughed again at the happy events of our wonderful day. It gave us a blessing greater than any Christmas gift could.

We could have felt sorry for ourselves and sat around complaining about our circumstances, but we chose to help. No one attends pity parties. The gift really was for us.

Jesus said, “What you do for the least of these, you do it for me.” (Above)
Joshua said, “Choose this day whom you will serve…” Joshua 24:15

Dear Lord. The greatest gift is You. Ignite in us the heart to be a gift to others and choose the Godly way to give—in Your name. Amen.

Lois Gosley