Holiday Care Packages

As the ladies in my church prepare to assemble and deliver Christmas baskets to shut-ins, I think of the individuals who have just had surgery, are coping with cancer treatments, or are simply unable to get out and about as most folks do. We visit and help however we can throughout the year, but we like to do something extra special for them on holidays.

Our baskets always include homemade bread and cookies, as well as fruit, nuts, and candies (sugar-free ones for diabetics).

Last month we delivered 284 shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child, to be distributed by Samaritan’s Purse ministries around the world. We do this annually, increasing the number each year, collecting items to be included all year long. Many hands are needed to assemble them and prayers are said over each one for the child who will receive it.

These boxes include personal care items, a stuffed animal and small toy, basic school supplies, and of course candies. It may be the only gift many of these children ever receive.

Care packages for soldiers overseas were also prepared and shipped last month. The children were responsible for this effort. They gave offerings to pay for postage and collected items to be enclosed. They also wrote letters to each soldier. (If you would like to send a care package but don’t know where to start, I’ve written an article with basic information plus names of web sites to which you can go for details.)

Whether it’s for an elderly person, a child, a family, a soldier, or a whole troop, brighten someone’s holiday this year by sending a gift basket you personally prepare or select one prepared for you.

May you experience the peace and joy of this Christmas season available to all who will believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.