A Year Round Christmas Mindset

Guest Post by Shara Lawrence-Weiss (www.MommyPerks.com)

Every year I watch in wonder as countless people show cheer, love and gratitude. Donations are made and coins are dropped into tins. Cookies are baked for neighbors and bottles of wine are dropped to friends. Parties are held and gifts are purchased. Extra smiles are given and common courtesies are extended.

Every year I find myself a bit puzzled by the idea that one season, once a year, should invoke these feelings, insights and courtesies.

I find myself pondering the following verses:

1. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT)
2. Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure– pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return. Luke 6:38 (NASV)
3. “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:31 (NIV)

How much better off would the broken hearts of our world be if we each attempted to live these truths, daily? Not at Christmas time but year round. Soup kitchens and non profits need volunteers every day. Hungry people don’t fill up simply because a holiday meal was provided at a shelter. Veterans continue to feel lonely and wanting of company long after the turkey and stuffing have been eaten. Children and single mothers need love and assistance every season of every year. Neighbors, without family, would love a thoughtful cookie platter even in the Spring time.

What we do for the least of these…we do for Christ. Every day of the year. This should be our heart’s desire: A year round Christmas mindset.