In the darkness that was September 11, the
whole world felt a weight so heavy that it resulted in an economic downturn, thousands of
jobs lost, and an uneasy restlessness verging on mass hysteria. It is only natural
for us then to search for light and whatever glimmer of hope we may find around us.
Two millenniums ago, a child’s coming was announced
by a radiant star. It shone brightly for those who waited for its coming and for those who
didn’t know of its timely significance. It was a sign of great hope and blessing for
all the people.
So, how can it still be a sign of hope for us today? The
tragedy of 9.11 was due to the misuse of God’s greatest gift to
us – free will. Christ’s coming was the answer to every evil no matter how
unthinkable because it meant that this life was not all we had but that it was the next
which held more significance. The birth of our Lord held the hope of eternal life, if we
but only make the best use of his gift of free will, choosing the right path in our lives.
Today that star still shines, in each one of us as we have
all received the light of Christ’s love. We may choose for it to shine brightly for
others to feel His love through us or we may let it be hidden under layers of busy-ness,
passivity and self-concern. May we all choose to be Hope-givers this season!
Ways to Shine Bright This Season Bring light and hope to
those who need it most! (And you'll see it come back to you a hundredfold!)
Make a checklist of
people you think are somewhat down in the dumps. Make it your goal this Christmas to
cheer them up in whatever way would best fit their situation.
Rest! Studies
show that productivity levels are higher when a person gets enough rest rather than goes
from task to task. If you are well-rested, it will show in your actions and
attitude.
Participate in
Papemelroti's Shoebox Christmas! Be a blessing to someone in need and surprise them
with a gift! Click here for more info.
Offer to cook for
someone who normally does the cooking. Be sure to make a good job of it and put the
most important ingredient - love!
Babysit for super
tired parents! Give them quality time to spend together, they will truly appreciate
this thoughtful gesture. It will also teach you how to be a child again!
Never know what to
give the person who has everything? An option is donating to a worthy institution in
their behalf. It benefits another as well as shows the recipient of your kind
regard.
Find someone (a
stranger) without a smile and leave him with one. Do this depending on his need,
whether it be a meal, a listening ear or even just a smile from you. Don't be
satisfied until he smiles back! (Do this with prudence.)
Plant some flowers
around the block, cut the surrounding areas (not just your own front yard)... do something
for the neighborhood you belong to.
Christmas Hope 
of God’s greatest gift to
us – free will. Christ’s coming was the answer to every evil no matter how
unthinkable because it meant that this life was not all we had but that it was the next
which held more significance. The birth of our Lord held the hope of eternal life, if we
but only make the best use of his gift of free will, choosing the right path in our lives.
Ways to