During the holidays it’s easy to get caught up in the list of errands, shopping lists, and social engagements. But Christmas is an especially good time to reach out to the community and serve. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf has said, “We miss the essence of our religion if our hands are not also inclined toward our fellowman” (“Providing in the Lord’s Way,” October 2011 general conference).
Christmas is about celebrating the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Christ’s ministry was focused on recognizing needs and serving others. This holiday season, one of the best ways to share Christ’s gift with others is to follow His example of selfless service. President Uchtdorf continues, “This very hour there are many members of the Church who are suffering. They are hungry, stretched financially, and struggling with all manner of physical, emotional, and spiritual distress. They pray with all the energy of their souls for succor, for relief.”
As you consider ways to reach out and share the gift of Christ this Christmas season, remember that your bishop and Relief Society president might be aware of needs in your area where you can be of great service.
Here are 10 ideas to get you thinking about ways you can serve this holiday season:
- Volunteer at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter.
- Invite someone who may be alone for the holidays to participate in a holiday activity.
- Purchase gifts for a family that may not have the resources for Christmas presents this year.
- Go Christmas caroling to friends and neighbors who would appreciate being remembered.
- Write thank-you cards to people whose service might not always get recognized, such as a parent or sibling or a Church or school teacher who has impacted you.
- Visit a rest home or elderly members in your ward.
- Offer to babysit for parents who may be overstretched due to holiday demands.
- Call your local elementary school, library, or recreation center to see if you can help with any of their seasonal festivities.
- If you live in a colder climate, collect coats, winter shoes, and other cold weather accessories to donate to families in need.
- Put together plates or baskets of holiday food to deliver to individuals who might not have the resources for Christmas dinner.
Remember that the needs you meet during the holidays are rarely exclusive to the month of December. Many people would benefit greatly from your time, energy, and love throughout the year. Use these holiday opportunities to build a regular pattern of service in your life.
President Uchtdorf concludes his remarks with a promise: “In the end you must do in your area what disciples of Christ have done in every dispensation: counsel together, use all resources available, seek the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, ask the Lord for His confirmation, and then roll up your sleeves and go to work.
“I give you a promise: if you will follow this pattern, you will receive specific guidance as to the who, what, when, and where of providing in the Lord’s way.”
For more ideas of how to share the gift, visit christmas.mormon.org.