The giving and gratitude season is fast approaching

[JM]

As we approach November and December, we will be reminded often to find ways to express our gratitude for the blessings of life.
While many of us have far more than we deserve we will be aware of those who suffer daily because of hunger and privation. They often lack proper housing and clothing. Thousands die each day because of starvation.
We may have had a brush, perhaps ever so slight, with some degree of pain and poverty. What can we as individuals, churches, clubs and other organizations do to make a difference in the lives of others? I offer these two suggestions.
1. While we are enjoying the blessings of Thanksgiving and Christmas there will be millions in our nation and throughout the world who will genuinely need our help. Gifts given through the local and national church ministry operations are the safest and surest way to give to help others.
2. Among those whom I trust to reach the needy are the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Samaritan's Purse and their "Operation Christmas Child", Food for the Hungry, Feed the Children, World Vision, Prison Fellowship and Rock of Africa Missions.
While thinking about Thanksgiving, traditionally regarded as a distinct American religious holiday, we also turn our attention toward Christmas which is the world-wide celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ as God's only begotten Son. It was this Son of God who reminded us, "You have the poor with you always" (Matthew 26:11). We also recall His words, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). Our neighbor, of course, is understood to be either that person close at home or far away.
Our special gifts for Thanksgiving and especially at Christmas should be given serious thought, prayer and planning.
The increasing commercialization of Thanksgiving and Christmas has convinced many that we celebrate to see how much we can receive. That kind of attitude may leave us feeling empty, disappointed and dissatisfied when it is all over. We must give in a manner that will not leave us embarrassed with our sense of stewardship. Perhaps these thoughts will help.
1. Do not be pressured into giving. I usually say "no" to those who solicit over the phone and suggest they send the appeal information by U. S. Mail.
2. In my area and yours there is or soon will be a drive to raise money through churches and other organizations for what is called "a good cause." Years ago there was a drug ring going from church to church asking for money. Some pastors recognized the scheme, checked it out and got in touch with the police. The crooks left town.
3. A representative from the Attorney General told about a group that was "raising money for the poor widow of the Unknown Soldier." There are some words in that phrase that touch the heart. Read it again and notice that it doesn't make much sense. They did, however, pocket more than a million dollars before they were put out of business. Report crooked operations to proper authorities.
As we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas, you can be sure that the scam artists will be operating by phone, letters, e-mails and house to house. If for some reason it doesn't sound right it probably isn't. We are called on to help those in need, but to also be good stewards of what has been placed in our hands. We should give generously and to those who have genuine needs.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas by generously sharing your gifts wisely. It is not too early to be making your giving plans.
Gifts given through local and national church ministry operations will reach those who are in need.