I don’t have any hard facts to support it, but I would bet that the United States of America is at the top of the list when it comes to giving humanitarian aid to others throughout this challenged and often troubled world. For all the criticism and abuse that comes our way, the USA has always had a long tradition of stepping up again and again when people near or far are in need. Sometimes it might have a motive attached, but more often than not, this inclination to help just comes as a natural response. It’s the right thing to do. At Christmas time, you can see it all around you. It’s universal, and it occurs on a grand scale and also on a scale that is as small as simply spending a moment with an elderly neighbor or helping out a family having a rough time. The joy of Christmas lives in the spiritual celebration, but it delights and manifests itself in giving. Stop for a minute and think of the people in this community who provide hope and help for others not just at Christmas, but throughout the year. If you've been having trouble finding your Christmas spirit lately, take a look at the example these folks provide. They can tell you of the light in a child’s eyes when a box of toys comes through the door from the Jaycee Empty Stocking project or the smile and sigh of relief on a young mom’s face when Weekend Blessings makes sure no one will miss supper. When "Shop With a Cop" turns Law Enforcement professionals into Santa's helpers, it is a site that would soften even the hardest heart. These folks can tell you how the human spirit can be revived in an instant when someone in need realizes that someone else cares. The natural joy of giving is in the DNA of this country and in the people who volunteer and work and worry not just a little, but a lot for the sake of others. In Acts 20:35, it is said ”It is more blessed to give than to receive”. Imagine what a world it would be if everyone felt the blessing of giving, not just at Christmas but every day of the year.
