Great slogans………but we know that real joy, indescribable joy is found only in Jesus, not triple thick eggnog milk shakes nor sharing our chicken nuggets. (Although the milk shake does sound good.)It is with great joy, the joy of the Lord, we begin another week here in the Comox Valley. Another week where we can be difference makers in someone’s life.
I have been so challenged by the example of the Macedonian churches (2 Corinthians 8:1,2) who even in their severe trial and extreme poverty, experienced overflowing joy that welled up in rich generosity. (Check it out.) During this Christmas season I want to encourage all of you as ‘joy filled’ followers of Jesus to allow generosity and compassion to rise up in your life.
Keep your eyes and heart open to the many needs around you. Be willing to share the joy.
How Can I Share The Joy? Here are just a few things to get you started.
• Brain storm with your family / children some things you can do be a blessing to someone. (Get your kids involved in the conversation.)
• Offer to provide child care free of charge for a young couple / single parent so they can go Christmas shopping.
• Buy grocery gift cards to give away as you are directed by the Lord.
• Encourage the Salvation Army kettle people with a donation, at least a smile, eye contact and a kind word.
• Call or visit a senior or a shut in. Offer to take them shopping, or go on a twinkle tour.
• Invite a newcomer to the valley, an international student or someone who is away from their family - home for a meal.
• Prepare a Christmas ‘gift bag’ with your kids that a homeless or needy person could benefit from. (Practical Items)
Community Christmas Partnerships
• Help pack 100’s of Christmas Hampers – This Thursday & Friday (More Details: 250-897-3999)
• Team up with friends & deliver Coast Realty hampers Wednesday December 22nd (Morning)
• Salvation Army also needs people to help serve & pray with people who receive their hampers.
• Many great community opportunities where you can make a difference.
CPC Ministries
• Give to our Benevolent / Blessing Ministry – We have many ongoing needs.
• Bring groceries into our CPC food bank. (Accessed every week)
• As a small group – adopt someone in need that you could serve / bless in some way.
• Invite friends to our children’s Christmas pageant this Sunday. (Bring your Christmas Baking)
• Invite people to our Christmas Eve services.
Joy filled people are generous people.
Have a great week everyone…......Go Share the Joy !!!!!
Love in Jesus
Pastor Dave
PS. Yesterday I gave out a few hugs following the service and realized how good it felt: to give a hug rather than withhold a hug.
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