2020 has been a difficult year, we all know this. People in your community feel like they are walking in a fog, uncertain of what tomorrow will bring and expecting the worst. It is in these moments that the light of God’s church can shine even brighter, providing hope in the midst of perceived hopelessness.
A church’s generosity is one of the ways in which the beacon of hope can be clearly seen. God works through the generosity of local churches to catch the attention and open the hearts of community members. We saw this in the early church, and we see it today.
Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to rally a local church around a generosity emphasis. Granted, the pandemic requires churches to do these efforts differently than prior years. To help, here are some creative ways your church can demonstrate generosity this Christmas.
1. Write letters to community leaders.
Navigating 2020 has been difficult for many community leaders. Their public roles have made them targets for frequent criticism. Give them something they have not received much this year—encouragement. Have church members write letters, filled with encouragement and commitments of prayer, to community leaders.
2. Have angel trees for underprivileged families in the church.
This year has wreaked financial havoc on many families in our churches. Collect the needs of underprivileged families in the church and provide an avenue for other church members to respond to those needs. An angel tree is a familiar and popular way to do this.
3. Provide gifts for local school teachers.
In-person teaching. Video teaching. School teachers have done it all this year. Identify a local school and showcase the love of Jesus by showering its teachers with gifts from the church.
4. Adopt a nursing home.
Men and women in nursing homes have experienced a significant amount of isolation. Demonstrate that the church and Christ have not forgotten them. Work with nursing home leadership to provide safe and meaningful ways of connecting with the residents inside a nursing home.
5. Send Christmas care packages for soldiers overseas.
The Christmas season can be difficult for soldiers overseas as many are not able to spend time with their loved ones. Have church members put together care packages for these soldiers. Include messages from adults and children.
6. Provide blanket bundles for the homeless.
During the winter months, many organizations are needing blanket bundles for the homeless. These care packages can provide a much-needed relief from colder weather. Partner with a local organization or provide the bundles to your community’s homeless population on your own.
7. Go Christmas caroling.
Spread the joy of Christmas in a classic way—through Christmas caroling. Of course, remember that we are in a pandemic. So, make sure you keep appropriate distance from those to whom you are singing.
These are just a few ways a church can creatively demonstrate generosity this Christmas. Get your church excited about a generosity emphasis this Christmas. There’s no better season to do this. Let your church be a beacon of hope in a year that has been filled with feelings of hopelessness.
