Everyone comes at Christmas!

“Everyone comes at Christmas.”   A few years ago, the Sunday School class that I was teaching at the time decided that we needed to do some type of missional activity during the holidays instead of a traditional Christmas party.  One of our members with the spiritual gift of service contacted the Assisted Living Home. One Saturday evening the class enjoyed singing carols and giving presents to the residents.  Prior to leaving that evening, we were standing at the door talking to the director, and I asked, “Is there anything else that we can do?”  Her response was “Everyone comes at Christmas.” 

Everyone comes at Christmas.  That phrase played over and over again in my head.  On Sunday, we discussed our visit to the assisted living and I share that the director’s comment that “Everyone comes at Christmas.”  Our class contacted the director and for the last four years has provided a monthly birthday party for the residents.  This party has become a highlight of the month for many residents. The party consists of the normal fun and games plus cake and food.  But the real key is the relationships that have been forged and lives have been touched. 

When I think about this ministry, I am reminded that it didn’t take a committee to decide.  The church didn’t have to vote.  In fact, the pastor and the staff didn’t even know that we had that ministry for several years.  Recognition was not sought.

I am thankful that this Sunday School class demonstrated the love of Jesus.  “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink?  When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or without clothes and clothe You?  When did we see You sick, or in prison, and visit You?’ “And the King will answer them, ‘I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’”  Mt 25:37–41 HCSB)

“Everybody comes at Christmas.”  That statement can either be an indictment or a motivation.   Are you on mission for God?  Is  your Sunday School class on mission for God?  Our actions speak louder than our words.  “Everybody comes at Christmas.”