A Time For Giving ...

As the weather begins to cool and we catch a hint of relief from the summer's unsympathetic heat, in our mind's eye we can catch a glimpse of football games, roasting hotdogs and marshmallows over a roaring fire, and snuggling into a warm new sweatshirt.

For those of us here in the south those days aren't quite here yet but, every now and then, when the breeze blows just a certain way, we can feel it -- it's in the air -- Autumn!  And, as the air gets chillier and the mornings brisker, we find ourselves looking forward to the comforting fragrances of cinnamon, fresh apples, cloves, and other wonderful scents that begin stirring up a sense of holiday excitement that has lain dormant for seven or eight months.

But...
              not everyone.   

There are those in our communities who, although they may welcome the cooler temperatures, are dreading the approaching fall and winter months because there are not enough blankets for tucking the kids in bed on cold nights, not enough money to pay the rising heating bills, and last year's jackets no  longer fit.  There's no anticipation of delicious fragrances and thoughts of the upcoming holidays fill their hearts with despair.  As the cooler temperatures arrive and the Holiday season approaches, the needs of many low income families will become even greater.

• blankets
• warm clothing and coats
• holiday foods
• Christmas gifts for their children

Can God use you to touch one family this winter?  Is there a blanket or afghan packed away somewhere that you rarely use?  Has someone in your household outgrown a sweater or jacket this year?  Many families living in and around our communities will be spending Thanksgiving and Christmas in very sad circumstances.  What better time for us to share with them the love of our Savior?

Requests are already coming in to local food banks and shelters for blankets, coats, and food.

I hope you will join me in reaching out to those who are facing a long cold winter and bring your gifts to local churches and outreach ministries. 

Is there someone near you whom you can bless with a friendly visit, a small gift, or a home-cooked meal at any time, but especially the holidays?  What an awesome way to live our lives with Purpose and Joy!