Making someone laugh, no matter how ridiculous I look!

Are you the type of person who strikes up conversations with strangers?  I’m sure  it doesn’t surprise you to know I will talk to a tree stump.  I find people fascinating and I love hearing their stories.  Most people are so desperate to have someone to listen to them, they’ll talk to anyone who shows an interest.  My favorite types of people to strike up conversations with are young moms who need an encouraging word and a reminder they’ll survive, children who need a laugh or a smile,  or senior citizens who have tales of long ago that make you feel like you’ve traveled in a time machine.

As I’ve done my Christmas shopping and traveled to see family over the holidays I’ve had the opportunity to encounter a variety of people. Some are frustrated by their “to do” lists and just want to be done with it all.  Others are lonely and find the holidays harder than before.  Either way, I view each encounter as an assignment from God. How?

We have the greatest gift in the world and it’s ours to give away.  The great thing about this gift is no matter the person, their need, or their circumstances, this gift is the perfect size. What is this gift? The answer is found in Isaiah 9:6-7,

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon His kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. [KJV]

As you go through this Christmas season, you have the opportunity to give away the gift of Christmas… JESUS! Won’t you give this Christmas away?

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2ulYpoNXC0[/youtube]