The Joy of The Lord
Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. . . Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10
This week we are distributing Giant Food gift cards to schools and social service agencies to be given to families in need of help purchasing food for Christmas. The response of one guidance counselor who will give the cards directly to families was, “Please thank your congregation! This will provide food that is desperately needed…this gift will bring Christmas joy to those who need it most!”
Her response reminded me of this verse from Nehemiah. Even though it has nothing to do we the birth of Christ, it does fit this time of year. Perhaps you have been preparing your Christmas Eve or Christmas day dinner menu with great care. The church staff have been sharing special cookie recipes. Food shared with family and friends at Christmas is such a big part of our celebrations.
What a privilege it is to share with others in tangible ways what God has given to us. When we reflect God’s generosity, we please the Lord, experience the joy of giving and trust that we have made a family’s Christmas a bit brighter.
If you haven’t done so yet, consider donating to a local foodbank or organization that provides food to families in need, as you are able. As you enjoy Christmas dinner, reflect on all the ways God has equipped you to share His strength and joy.
Father God, thank You for the gift of Your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ, He is our source of strength and joy. May our actions bring joy to others. Amen.