'Tis the Season to Give Service and Time

At this time of year, along with the hustle and bustle of the shopping world, we are often particularly aware of the needs of others. There are campaigns for toy and food drives, the Salvation Army is ringing away on street corners, and many churches make an extra push for donations for those less fortunate. Now is a good time to give of very valuable gift: yourself. And it won't cost you a dime!

Give the gift of Service. Let the holiday spirit open your eyes to the many opportunities to serve those around you. Perhaps a neighbor needs assistance around the house with a project, or you just realized that the local food bank is closer to your house than you thought. Find and commit yourself to some service this season, whether a one-time event or something that lasts throughout the year to come.

Give the gift of Time. We all have the same 24 hours in a day, but how we spend it makes all the difference. Use your precious hours to bless the lives of others. Think about taking just an hour of your leisure time and devoting it to someone else(by the way, this can be spent doing something fun!). If you spend more time with your spouse and with your children, the results will amaze and bless you, as well.

The holidays certainly have a special spirit about them. Indeed, 'tis the season to give...but what will you give?