I'd like to share with you all this sermon that was given at my church one year ago.
http://holytrinitydc.org/sites/default/files/homily/Ryan%20Maher,%2012.13.09.mp3
Monday, December 13, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
'Tis the Season
This Christmas season, the world faces a number of challenges. Unemployment benefits are about to run out for millions of Americans who, through no fault of their own, have been unable to find work. Social Security and Medicare face serious financial challenges, which means care for the elderly will at the very least grow more expensive. In Maryland, a controversial abortion doctor is starting a practice and radical protest groups are vowing to have a continuing presence of protests and have issued death threats against him. Millions of Americans face challenges in the health care department. That's not to mention all those suffering from disease, families missing loved ones who serve in the military, those grieving the loss of a loved one, and the poor.
As you think about the gifts to get your loved ones and the ones you hope to receive this year, try making a third list this year: where you feel called to give. There are many areas of the world crying out for aid this year. Maybe instead of giving a traditional gift this year, you ask a family in financial need what you can do for them, if you can buy some of their gifts. Maybe you visit a nursing home or retirement community and spend time with those who might not have family. Consider making donations to organizations in honor of your loved ones instead of buying them shower gel or a sweater. Stop and say hi to the people ringing bells everywhere and give them a donation, even if it's only a few cents, instead of being annoyed. Take one of those little slips at the grocery store and add a dollar to your total to donate to the hungry. Really think about how your gift this season can make a difference in the world.
One of the best known parables in the Bible is the poor widow who gives all she has. Today, bankrupting ourselves isn't the smartest thing to do, but I think we can all find that we have something to give that will genuinely make a difference this holiday season. Instead of protesting and complaining and reacting negatively to the issues facing the world today, heed the call instead. We are called to respond to the world's challenges with love. We are all being called to give and to serve others this holiday season.
How will you answer the call?
As you think about the gifts to get your loved ones and the ones you hope to receive this year, try making a third list this year: where you feel called to give. There are many areas of the world crying out for aid this year. Maybe instead of giving a traditional gift this year, you ask a family in financial need what you can do for them, if you can buy some of their gifts. Maybe you visit a nursing home or retirement community and spend time with those who might not have family. Consider making donations to organizations in honor of your loved ones instead of buying them shower gel or a sweater. Stop and say hi to the people ringing bells everywhere and give them a donation, even if it's only a few cents, instead of being annoyed. Take one of those little slips at the grocery store and add a dollar to your total to donate to the hungry. Really think about how your gift this season can make a difference in the world.
One of the best known parables in the Bible is the poor widow who gives all she has. Today, bankrupting ourselves isn't the smartest thing to do, but I think we can all find that we have something to give that will genuinely make a difference this holiday season. Instead of protesting and complaining and reacting negatively to the issues facing the world today, heed the call instead. We are called to respond to the world's challenges with love. We are all being called to give and to serve others this holiday season.
How will you answer the call?
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