Sunday, December 18

"But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete

earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this

grace of giving. I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love

by comparing it with the earnestness of others. For you know the grace of our Lord

Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that

you through his poverty might become rich.’” — 2 Corinthians 8:7-9

Our family had no problem deciding on our favorite Christmas memories to share with you for “A Season of Love.” I was honored to serve on the board of Brantwood Children’s Home for three years. Brantwood is Montgomery’s oldest orphanage for kids, aged 10-21 years. These precious children are at Brantwood through no fault of their own, usually as a result of parental neglect, abuse, or incarceration. Brantwood is a Christ-centered wonderful place. It meets the children’s physical, mental, and spiritual “needs”, but often cannot afford the “wants” of children this age.

My family’s favorite and most fun Christmas memories begin in early November when we find out which child is “ours” for Christmas, and we receive their “wish lists.” Often times, they contain essential items, but frequently they include fun items such as Air Force One Nike shoes, digital cameras, game systems, and games. (We ALWAYS go over the modest suggested price for these gifts!) We deliver the gifts to Brantwood a couple days before Christmas, when we are able to meet with our special child and let them open one gift of our choosing. The pure joy on their face when they see the gift is our family’s sweetest Christmas memory and gift of the season! We always talk to them about the TRUE meaning of Christmas and the greatest free gift of all- Jesus Christ.

When we think of all our Heavenly Father has given to us, and how He abundantly provides us with everything we need, we feel this small “giving back” is the very least we can do. The Bible tells us in Psalm 127:3 that “Children are a gift from God,” and in Psalm 82:4, we are told to “Rescue the poor and helpless.” I ask you to consider, what is more precious, helpless, and needy than a parentless child?

Activity:

A fun activity for your family might be to make a Christmas card, or if able, buy a gift certificate for an orphan, nursing home resident, or shut- in and pray with the recipient when you deliver it.

Prayer:

Our precious Heavenly father, thank you so very much for the blessings You have bestowed on our family. Thank you for food, shelter, and clothing. Thank you for loving us and for being our Father. Lord, please provide, protect, and love the orphans of Montgomery, as well as the world. In Jesus’ loving name we pray. Amen.

Have a Blessed Christmas!

Jack, Kem, Taylor, Sydney and Jack Anderson