As the Christmas season intensifies, I find that my view of giving is changing. I wonder how much the prospect of going to Africa to work and mingle with St. Matthews school is the cause. Maybe the economy and so much need in this country is also a factor. I am sure my first Christmas with my Grandson Jackson also bears some responsibility. How can I give enough to overcome poverty and starvation? How can I help those in need or out of jobs? What can I give Jackson that will be the key for him to find happiness and hope throughout life?

In 5 weeks we will be ready to leave. I go to Liberia, not to preach the good news of Jesus Christ, but to live that good news. "Go and make disciples" means to me to go and sweat, and work, and show the destitute that they are loved, and that someone cares. It will be a life changing 10 days.

What kind of gifts am I giving? What will I leave behind? I will bring small tokens, give my work, sprinkle smiles and caring. I will hope that I briefly mirror Christ. But what I bring back will be the most important part of my Christmas giving this year. If I come back and ignore those in need around me, if I do not share that love here, my trip may just become another vacation.

I suspect I will come back having received much more than I have given. Maybe that is what I seek this Christmas--To know that whatever I give others will not just be a shiny new toy or a small item they don't want, but rather a gift that grows our love and understanding of one another.

I can't save the world from itself. I can only reach out in love to those around me and the world, and hope that each gift I give will be one that reflects the grace and peace of Jesus.