I already have too much "stuff." I don't know what to do with some of my "stuff." So I think I'll take a little different approach this season.
The T.O.Y. in the title stands for "Think Outside Yourself." Our whole world, from the earliest preschool through college, from business to politics, and, unfortunately, in some of what we learn in our churches and sunday schools, is really wrapped around a very selfish attitude - what's it got to do with ME?
This week, our praise team had the opportunity to serve at the local mission/shelter. That's something that you don't always LIKE to do, but it's what everyone SHOULD do at some time or another. It was a relatively nice day for November in South Dakota, but for those who needed a place off the streets, the mission was the place to be. On the menu was Chicken BBQ sandwiches, veggies, chips, dessert - and love, acceptance, and respect for their situation from our praise team. -- T.O.Y.
(as an aside here, I remember well sitting in the back row many times at the Union Gospel Mission as a child listening to my Dad give a short talk to the mission's "clients" before the meal. A good example and excellent childhood memory.)
There was an article in the paper this morning about Bronco's Quarterback Tim Tebow, and the grief he's taking for standing up for his faith. The press doesn't know what to do with the fact that he'd rather use his money to build a children's hospital in the Phillipines than he would to build a mansion for himself to live in luxury. --T.O.Y
We have already determined, as a family, that we will get simple things for each other for stocking stuffers and some gift cards at favorite stores. Then, we will collectively decide on a family donation to a charity. --T.O.Y.
Time for you to step up and serve your neighbor(s) in some form or fashion. It matters not if you lean toward the Christmas/Christian belief, Chanukah/Jewish, Islam, Kwanzaa, or choose to ignore the hoopla surrounding this time - serving is NEVER out of style. We owe it to our children to set the example (like I saw in my life) that you need to always Think Outside Yourself.
Have a great holiday season in service to others.
