What Are Some Charitable Gifts to Give for Christmas?
Some charitable gifts to give for Christmas are toys and clothes, but there is nothing like sharing the Good News of Christ, which can change people’s lives for eternity. Instead of buying material things for Christmas, why not give words of life for less than a penny?[1]
Born and raised in South Asia, Jonathan had no idea that a small pamphlet would change his life. At 19, he was working in a hotel, having given up on his dreams to pursue higher education. Jonathan had been an outstanding student, excelling in academics and extracurricular activities, but his family’s financial burdens weighed heavily on him, and he had decided to put his future on hold to support them. Each day was a cycle of work and obligation, with an emptiness that wouldn’t disappear.
One evening, as Jonathan stepped off the bus after work, a man (Pastor Sylas) handed him a small pamphlet. Jonathan almost didn’t take it, but there was something about it that caught his attention. The front had the words, ‘For You’ printed on it. As he walked home, he flipped through its pages. At first, he didn’t know what to make of it. The inside message was of Jesus, His love and the hope offered to all seeking Him. Jonathan had never heard the Good News explained that way before. He felt something in his heart stir, a longing he couldn’t understand.
That pamphlet gave the address of a church, and Jonathan decided to visit. The congregation welcomed him warmly. He hadn’t felt such joy in a long time. He asked questions, listened intently and was attracted by the message of Christ’s love. Jonathan was thirsty to know more about Christ, so he regularly attended the church. The emptiness in his heart was soon filled with God’s overflowing love, joy and peace.
Jonathan told his parents about the hope he had found in Christ. His mother was stunned into silence, and his father shunned him, refusing to talk to him. Jonathan was crushed, but he did not forsake his faith. He threw himself into the local church and used his musical talents to help lead worship. His passion for helping others increased, and he began to mentor younger believers. Jonathan made artwork made from recycled materials and used the money from selling it to help impoverished children afford transportation to school, knowing firsthand how the effects of poverty can affect schooling.
A pamphlet full of life-giving words changed Jonathan’s life. Now, he shares these words with others, hoping they will find the same hope he did.
Remember that the simplest gifts can have the most profound effect this Christmas. A single pamphlet, given with love, can transform a life forever.
Learn more about the charitable Christmas gifts offered through GFA World[1] “Words of Life for Less Than a Penny.” GFA World. June 2024. https://www.gfa.org/news/articles/words-of-life-for-less-than-a-penny.