If we want our children to care about the poor, one of the best ways to teach them about this is to do things for the poor during the holiday season. In the USA, the biggest holiday season is from Thanksgiving in November to January 1 (New Years) including Christmas or Advent.

We have started to help refugees in North Chicago with a group called Love Westridge.

Sometimes we collect food, cleaning supplies and other items to give to them from a nearby school. This is a great way to give to people and also teach our kids to do the same.

We also participate in gathering events in the neighborhood with Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Christians to share meals together in a family setting. We play games together laughing and learning about each other’s traditions and customs. We share about our families and childhood events that have shaped us.

When our kids were little, sometimes they didn’t know who would be coming for thanksgiving dinner because we always tried to invite people that didn’t have any where else to go. This is also another good idea.

When we lived in India, I always wanted to invite people over that could not really afford to return the favor. This is also a wonderful learning time for families. Sometimes even the neighbors notice things like this and it leaves an impression. We made friends with all the people who pressed clothes standing on the corner of our neighborhood. We are still in touch today as the kids are now grown but the parents still stand on the same corner pressing clothes.

Let’s see what Jesus said about this kind of thing:

“Then Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbours; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” Luke 14:12-15

1. What do you learn about God?
2. What do you learn about people?
3. How should we respond?
4. Who should you share this with?

Just some ideas for you to spread the love of God this holiday season and always.

Have fun and let’s be different and make an impact on our communities!