Do you remember when there was no Walmart in Canada? Hard to imagine really. We had Kmart and Woolco and we still have Zellers. But Walmart just seems to get bigger with groceries and more super and 24 hours and Mcdonald’s. I think they have Walmart brand 5 door hatchbacks with power windows and heated seats there now…..just kidding … or am I?
I was with three of my four sons today at Walmart, you can guess which ones. We were not there shop but to collect. We volunteered to be collectors for the Salvation Army kettles. The money goes to those who are in need in our community. My boys decided to dress up for the occasion and were wearing suit jackets and collared shirts. They put me to shame in that department I must say.
So we started at 10 AM and I was coaching my children the proper etiquette of doing this. Of course they supplied us with sleigh bells to ring which my boys were very good at. They know how to ring those bells. Come on. So I stood there with my children as people walked by, some who gave and those who didn’t smiling at each one. Many people gave during those two hours. Many gave fives and tens and even twenty dollar bills.
Believing that what they were giving to would help someone and yet they would never see those they are helping. Wow that’s faith. Kudos to the Salvation Army for having such a great reputation for helping those in need. But to those who gave today I commend you. I was taken aback by your generosity without expectation of receiving anything in return. That reminds me of Jesus. He gave because it was who He was. God is love the Bible tells us.
I am encouraged today that we live in a culture where there are many people who are willing to pitch in and help those in need. We have to ask ourselves will an extra five dollars really help me? Or will it impact another person’s life so much more because they have so little? You can figure it out I’m sure.
Well as for me and my children, who I am sure earned a few extra dollars because they are rather fetching in certain moments, I don’t think we will ever be able to pass another Salvation Army kettle without considering what can we do to help others today who cannot help themselves.
Have a Jesus Christ centred Christmas.
P Shane