Every angel tree gift will shine the light of hope and happiness for a child in need this Christmas morning. That is a beautiful example of stewardship. The season of Advent and Christmas offer so many opportunities to be a light of hope showing love for our neighbors in need.
Someone once told me, “You only love God as much as you love your neighbor.” Wow! This statement should not surprise us. The Gospels spells it out in the commandments. St. John the apostle reminds us in his first letter that we are called to “… love one another, because love is of God; everyone who loves is begotten by God and knows God. Whoever is without love does not know God, for God is love.” —1 John 4:7-8
There are plenty of opportunities to show our love for God and neighbor by volunteering at our parishes throughout the year. However, during Advent we are asked for extra donations of food, coats and gifts for an angel tree.
In the heart of this season of plenty, remember the poor in our community. Each time we use the gifts that God has so generously given us to serve others, we are shining a light of hope to one of God’s children.
The Advent wreath shines new light on our table and reminds us of the reason for the season. The four candles in the advent wreath represent: hope, love, joy and peace. These are the virtues that will prepare our hearts for a glorious Christmas. If we reflect on these virtues as we prepare our family and ourselves for Christmas, we are sure to shine the light of hope and happiness to our neighbors. Just remember, that God is love and we show our love for Him when we show our love for our neighbors.
May God bless you and your loved ones this Advent and Christmas season!
“We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar; for whoever does not love a brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. This is the commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.” — 1 John 4:19-21