The Gift of Giving
I recently learned something fascinating about how some Native American tribes handle grief. When someone passes away, they have this beautiful tradition - anyone who comes to comfort the family doesn't leave empty-handed. Instead, they receive something that belonged to the person who died. The grieving family, even in their darkest moments, practices giving. They believe healing comes through giving - and I think they might be onto something.
This reminds me of what we did at the church I attended and worked at as a church secretary during seminary. Every year, we sent teams to Juarez, Mexico, to build houses. Sure, we would go there thinking we were the ones giving - building homes, bringing toys for kids, playing soccer in dusty streets, sharing whatever we could. But here's the amazing part: these families, living in makeshift homes of cardboard and pallets, ended up giving us so much more. They shared their incredible faith, their warm smiles, their friendship - it was just beautiful to see that healing happened on both sides.
During the holidays, it seems like everywhere we turn, there's an invitation to give. Our to-do lists are packed with gift ideas for loved ones, charities are reaching out, and our families are hoping for some quality time. And you know what? I say bring it on! Because we really need this healing right now.
Let's be honest - the holidays can be really tough for a lot of people. Depression hits harder, family tensions surface, and loneliness feels deeper. There are parents out there worried sick about affording presents, families missing loved ones serving overseas, and so much unrest in our world that makes talk of "peace on earth" feel like a distant dream.
Speaking of giving, this Sunday our choir has prepared something special for us all. They've poured their hearts into rehearsals to offer us the gift of music - and yes, I'll even be joining in! Now, I'll be honest with you - my singing voice might be more... let's say "enthusiastic" than angelic. But you know what? Sometimes the most meaningful gifts aren't about perfection. They're about showing up with an open heart and giving what we have.
I can't wait to see how all our voices together - from our most talented soloists to those of us who might be more comfortable singing in the shower - will lift our spirits and touch our souls. You know that feeling when music just washes over you in the sanctuary? That's the kind of healing we're talking about.
And as we gather this Sunday, we're also wrapping up our pledge drive for 2025. I know talking about pledges isn't always comfortable, but think of it this way - it's another beautiful chance to give, to help ensure our church family can continue sharing love and hope with our community in the year ahead. If you're able, please bring your pledge this Sunday. Remember, every gift, no matter the size, helps weave the fabric of our church stronger.
Because when we give - whether it's through music (even slightly off-key), pledges, or simple acts of kindness - something magical happens. Healing begins to take root, both in others and in ourselves. Let's embrace giving this season. It doesn't matter how big or small. Let's get creative with it, be generous in whatever way we can, and put our whole hearts into it. Because isn't that what this season is all about?
Peace, Pastor Tracy