The holiday season is a time we’re inundated with one single message from all sides – CONSUME! The commercials, radio ads and store signs are up after Halloween and it seems every night there is a news story on the latest must have item, whether for children or adults. It is extremely easy to get caught up in the entire fracas.
We hear of campaigns to ‘put the Christ back in Christmas’ and encourage one another to remember ‘the reason for the season’. These are all empty words and meaningless action if we stay caught in the cycle of desires and demands.
Following the example God sets before us in scripture, the holidays should be a time of focusing on community, celebrating the time we have with each other. Our attention should focus on meaningful gifts that will carry memories; gifts that will be cherished long after New Year’s Day. Consider something handmade, personalized or individual.
Turning our attentions outward, we should focus on community, both local and international. Support local businesses. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate and strengthen Lawrence. Gather up the old jackets, scarves and mittens in your home and bring them to the Lawrence Community Shelter. Never pass a Salvation Army bucket without donating some money.
Non-profit organizations around the world, like Human Rights Campaign, offer Christmas gifts as a way to raise money and awareness for the need they serve. Organizations like Heifer International offer the opportunity to provide livestock, seeds or training to families struggling with hunger and poverty around the world. Their goal is sustainability and self-sufficiency.
This article first appeared in the Faith Forum column of the Lawrence Journal-World on Saturday December 18th, 2010.
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