It is an inescapable truth that Jesus, born in a stable among the poor, repeatedly proclaimed the good news to the poor. For me to celebrate the Christ of Christmas I cannot ignore the opportunity I have to help meet the needs of those who hold a special place in the heart of Jesus.

For several years UPUMC has had a wonderful alternative gift program called Share the Light. Don't buy someone another sweater or necktie they don't need. Instead give them a card that says a monetary gift has been given in their name to a mission agency that helps others.

Our challenge to you: make at least some of your gifts alternative gifts. If you have never given a Share the Light gift, give one or more this year. These gifts matter significantly in the lives of those served by the mission agencies.

Bring the whole family into the discussion. Decide who among your family and friends would appreciate receiving a gift given to mission in their name. We spend a lot of time and money on decorations and parties to lift our spirits. Maybe this would be a good starting point for a family discussion. “How much will we spend on ourselves this Christmas and how much will we share with others that are not as fortunate?”

When we share the light of Christ, we also share in the joy of Christ. We have an opportunity this Advent as a church to have a greater missional impact than ever before.