December 17 Home Communicator – What do you want to give this Christmas?
When I thought about what to give my children this Christmas, naturally I asked what they would like to get. I received a variety of answers ranging from high priced electronics to socks (guess what I chose!). While my husband and I enjoy surprising our children with things from their list, we find ourselves having to intentionally refocus our family from what the world says is important to receive back to what we know will truly satisfy. As we think about this together as a community of faith challenged by our theme this year to “Be the Change” in an increasingly dark world, it is only natural that we ask together: What do we want to give this Christmas? Peace for someone who is struggling? Health for one who is ill? Joy for the someone who is stressed? Hope to someone who is hopeless?
At Hudsonville Christian we are centering our students’ on this very mission: What can we give this Christmas that can truly satisfy? Each grade level has chosen to Be the Change to different ministries such as Open Doors Orphanage, Hand2Hand ministries, and Kids’ Food Basket. As they think creatively in their individual grade level communities how to make a lasting impact each person benefiting from these organizations, they are focused on not a moment of peace, or a flash of joy, but rather they are focused on the gift that can truly satisfy: a relationship with Jesus Christ.
We are so thankful for the opportunity we have at HCS to partner with parents in nurturing our children’s relationship with the one who can truly satisfy, not just at Christmastime, but all throughout the year. May the Prince of Peace, the Healer of the Nations, the Fount of Joy, the Hope of the World – may a relationship with Jesus be the greatest gift you give and receive this Christmas.
Rachel Landstra, Mission Advancement