Advent is All About Others

During the past 2 1/2 years of my cancer battle, it has been a joy to see people "give" to me in a variety of ways. I have had to learn the art of receiving which was difficult for me.  But, once each person's individual gifts became visible, I relaxed.  Like my brother said, "This is the journey the Lord has for us too."  My reaction was, "Daaahhh!  I should know that" and not feel guilty that others are helping.  The Lord is working in their lives too.  So, when my sister and later a friend moved in, their sacrifices were huge.  Now when I look back, it was a season of growth for them as well as a blessing for me.

During Advent, how do we give to others or put others first?  As our Example, the Lord thought of us when He came in human form.  When He healed the leaper, it was His compassion for the man.  When He made the lame man walk, it was because of His love for this person as well as to glorify His Father.  When He healed the Roman officer's young servant, it was because the Lord saw His strong faith.  (Matthew 8) 

For even the Son of Man

came not to be served

but to serve others

and to give His life

as a ransom for many.

Mark 10:45  NLT

This is a time for us to focus on why Jesus was on earth, what He would like us to do for others, and how He is coming again.  Advent may be coming to a close but ADVENT, preparing for His return and our meeting with Him, is a daily choice.  Holidays are difficult for those who are alone, some who are single, those who are jobless, the homeless who are hungry and out in the cold, those who are grieving loss, and those who are sick.  Let's think of them and act.  One serves because of compassion.  One gives because of love for others.  One sacrifices because of our Example.  Remember:

For a Child is born to us,

a Son is given to us.

The government will rest on His shoulders.

And He will be called:

Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6  NLT

And, He is our wonderful counselor, a mighty God, everlasting Father, and our Prince of Peace. That is why we serve:

“Glory to God in highest heaven,

and peace on earth

to those with whom God is pleased.”Luke 2:14  NLT

Advent is about Jesus, those He loves, and our giving to those around us.  HE gave, so we give.