In the midst of his family’s difficulties and his own personal misery, Tiny Tim in the Christmas Carol was able to see and feel goodness in life and wanted to pass it along to others. While there is plenty of personal tragedy and family difficulties for the men of Helping Up Mission, this Christmas season there has also been the feeling of goodness and gratitude across our campus.
So many wonderful people did so much to help and support the men of Helping Up Mission that it is just hard to stay cynical around here. Admittedly, we all tend to want more than what we have or receive, but the love and the gifts just kept coming right up through Christmas Day.
Special meals, goodies and gifts for us and our children surrounded us here this holiday season. Other people wrote checks and dropped off cash, as well as invited us out to their own events elsewhere. Some just came down to hang out, listen and talk with us.
It appears to me that anyone who is having a rough time during the holidays should just do like so many of these folks did and go find some place to serve and share. Overwhelmingly, those who give always report receiving back even more, in return.
Thanks to all the wonderful friends of Helping Up Mission who made a difference here all year long, not just during the holiday season. We’ll be here next year, too – I hope you will come back again.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
Pastor Gary Byers
Spiritual Life Director