As you gather with your loved ones to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ this season, it is important to remember those who are hurting.
Whether it’s a friend grieving the loss of a parent and will be spending their first Christmas without them, or a sister going through a divorce – or even a child who lost a mom or dad to cancer – the truth is there are many people who find the Christmas season incredibly painful.
The good news is, there are a few things you can do to show them the love of Jesus and make their burden just a little bit easier – and here are a few ideas to get you started.
Be Present
Yes. I know. We are all “busy” … especially during the holidays.
But are you really too “busy” to visit a friend… or even phone them to pray with them or just listen while they express grief over their loss?
Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own world and focused on things that don’t really matter (like Christmas shopping) that we neglect to see those around us who are hurting.
This doesn’t mean you should make yourself available 24/7 for a person, as boundaries are essential, but it does mean you should pause and take a moment to think of someone in your life who is in need.
Even offering to pray for them – or sending them a heartfelt card or flowers – is a kind act that could have a ripple effect.
Meet A Tangible Need
The greatest thing any of us need is the spiritual salvation found in Christ alone.
At the same time, there are those who are truly struggling and could use a helping hand.
Remember what the Bible tells us about seeing someone who is cold and hungry, but then sending them off empty-handed – telling them to simply “go in peace.”
“What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?
If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” — James 2:14-16
To be clear – James is not saying your works save you, but he is saying your faith compels you to do good works.
When you’ve been truly changed by Jesus, you have a heart for those in need.
We can all help people in different ways – it could be something as simple as providing groceries for a single mom or helping an elderly woman by doing her errands or shoveling her snow.
As you spend time with God today, ask Him to put those on your heart whom you can help.
Donate To Your Favorite Cause
And finally, as you prepare for your year-end giving, consider giving a little bit extra.
Whether it’s to an organization helping abortion workers leave the industry, providing overnight respite care for children with special needs, or helping children of prisoners – there are many organizations serving those who are brokenhearted.
And as you gather around the table this Christmas – consider sending an invitation to someone you know who is spending Christmas alone.
What may seem as a small gesture to you could mean the world to them – as not only are you showing them hospitality – but you are demonstrating the tangible love of Jesus.
Merry Christmas.
What are some ways you can care for the brokenhearted this Christmas season?
You can post your answers to our Facebook page and join in the conversation with other believers from all around the world.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-1717
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