Creative Generosity

As we approach Christmas, each of us in our own small and big ways, think of giving to others. More than the decorations and carol services it is our giving which makes the season meaningful and real because God so loved the world and GAVE his only son.  (John 3:16)

In our Family Bible Study we were studying Psalm 112  a few weeks back and verse 5 caused us to think of generosity and lending to others, not just at Christmas but in everyday life as well. 

“Good will come to whoever is generous and lends freely.”

-Psalm 112:5a NIV paraphrased

Here is one of the ‘Giving Stories’ shared on the day, a true story that brought tears to our eyes and left us inspired to give creatively of our time, talents and treasures in our own worlds.

Alone at Christmas?

Ratna had lived a good life- a caring Christian home, loving parents, a caring husband and a beautiful family. Now her children were doing well for themselves and had their own homes and families abroad. For many Christmases Ratna had travelled to be with family but not this time. After her husband's death and having just been through a surgery, Ratna knew that she could not travel to be with family in the US, this year at Christmas. She sat in the quietness of her apartment in Chennai, India, missing her 8 grandchildren when suddenly she got an idea- a ‘God-given’ idea she says! 

“O Lord, you perceive my thoughts from afar.

Before a word is on my tongue, you know it completely.”

-Psalm 139: 2b & 4

Instead of wallowing in self-pity she went about organizing a fun evening at her home. She invited all the children in the apartment to come to a Christmas party in her house on Christmas eve. There was no time to waste- there was shopping to be done and food to be ordered. Along with the help of Banu, who was now more family than a neighbour, the preparations were made.

On the day, the excited children came in with their mothers/grannies. This was new for them, they did not know what to expect. Adults and children tucked into the delicious food laid out on the large table as music and laughter filled the air. There was a large, iced cake, pizzas with varied toppings and vadai (a popular, deep fried Indian snack) and cold drinks. When they had had their fill, the table was cleared, and the surprise was revealed. Putting out some dazzling decorations, Ratna gave each child a mini Christmas tree to decorate. The mothers and children eagerly went to work with squeals of joy and smiles of glee.

As photographs were taken, the delighted, very thankful children took their decorated trees home to keep and enjoy every year. Ratna later realized there were 8 children!  God had given her the idea and blessed her with 8 children to celebrate with her when she missed her 8! Her heart was filled to overflowing.

“When we act out of a desire to honour God, we find deeper satisfaction in our giving.”

-Daily Acts of Kindness devotional

And as the song goes ‘it is in giving that we receive’. (Make me a channel of your peace)