What Then Must We Do?

Even though I was traveling home from Up North today, I was at my church in spirit – with this week's column on the spirit of giving...

What then must we do?

The multitudes asked (John the Baptist), “What then must we do?” He answered them, “He who has two coats, let him give to him who has none. He who has food, let him do likewise.”

– Luke 3:10-11

Poor John the Baptist. His story falls right into that black hole between Thanksgiving and Christmas, where the turkey’s gone and all we can think about is preparing for Christmas – shopping, decorating, and more shopping. Oh, and maybe some thoughts about the birth of Jesus.

John was preparing for Christmas, too. But he didn’t need to find the greatest deal online or that perfectly shaped tree. He just needed open minds and hearts to believe in the coming of the Messiah. And, in case you didn’t notice in today’s Gospel reading, he also set the stage for charitable giving. “He who has two coats, let him give to him who has none. He who has food, let him do likewise.”

John calls us to examine our true needs and to share with those who have less. He wanted to prepare us for Christ and help us start thinking like Him.

But I’m not rich, you say. What can I possibly do?

Thanks for asking. Did you know how many opportunities there are at First English Lutheran? (Insert YOUR church or community, too!) In case you glossed over them in the bulletin, consider supporting:

THE CHARLIE BROWN TREE: Please help a few local teenage kids by picking a tag from the tree, buying and wrapping their gift, and bringing it back to the church prior to noon on December 20.

DECORATE THE CHRISTMAS TREE FOR THE NEEDY: Pick an envelope, take out the ornament/candle, put your name on it and hang on the tree by the church office, then put your donation in the envelope, put your name on the envelope and place in the box on the table. 

RING THOSE BELLS: Salvation Army bell ringers are needed. This is a great way for youth to get volunteer hours or for anyone to spend 2 hours with family or friends, spreading Christmas cheer.

When the multitudes ask “What then must we do?” there is no shortage of answers or opportunities. Open your hearts and minds – and even your wallets – to spread the message of love and hope for ALL this Christmas season.

A fitting way to prepare for our Savior’s birth.