Christmas is a season of reflection. It’s time to celebrate God’s love for us in Jesus Christ, who came to reconcile us to God. To our Creator. Below is a very brief guide on how you might extend that love to those around you this festive season. With it being such a busy season, reflecting the true spirit of Christmas to your neighbours will require a conscious effort.
1. Start With Prayer
Before reaching out, take a moment to reflect on who your neighbours are. Maybe write a list of their names. Then commit to praying for them. Ask God to open doors for connection, revealing ways you might serve them. Pray for guidance, boldness and creativity to meet their needs. Pray for the right words to share the significance of Christmas.
Pray for the right words to share the significance of Christmas.
In prayer, we can partner with God in approaching our neighbours with compassion and sensitivity. It prepares our hearts to offer love without expectation or conditions. Some of your neighbours won’t share the same Christian faith. So we need the Lord’s wisdom on how to genuinely love and extend his kindness to others, whether from different faiths, cultures or generations.
2. Small Acts Can Go a Long Way
Offer a helping hand—whether that’s helping an elderly neighbour with groceries; watching a working parent’s kids for the afternoon; or simply taking out someone’s garbage. These small gestures of service can make a big difference and create opportunities to connect.
Look out for your neighbours who might be spending the holidays by themselves.
Think about ways to include your neighbour in your Christmas activities and plans. During this season, many people can feel overwhelmed or very lonely. Look out for your neighbours who might be spending the holidays by themselves. Invite them over for a Christmas feast. Spend time with them. Check in with how their holiday is going. Even a quick “how are you keeping?” can demonstrate thoughtfulness and care.
For those in financial need, consider putting together a small gift package or donating a grocery voucher. If you are able, encourage others to join up with larger community projects.
3. Share Meals and Gifts
Food has a special way of bringing people together. So, bake some Christmas cookies or a loaf of bread to drop off at your neighbour with a note. Cook a simple meal and share it with them. You could even host a small, informal gathering.
Food has a special way of bringing people together.
I remember one Christmas, years ago, my neighbour dropped off shortbread accompanied by a kind note at my doorstep. The warm gesture gave me a sense of belonging at a time when I couldn’t be with my family. These thoughtful acts of kindness show love without requiring much from your neighbour.
4. Offer Encouragement
A Christmas card with a heartfelt message or a note of encouragement can be deeply meaningful, especially to those who’ve had a tough year or are spending the season alone. Include a Bible verse or passage and few kind words that remind them of hope. A simple act like this can brighten someone’s day and remind them that they’re loved.
5. Bear Witness to the Real Wonder
Finally, as you serve and give, be open to sharing the love of Christ. Look for natural moments to speak about the meaning of Christmas and how God’s love through Jesus has transformed your life. Christmas is about celebrating God’s gift of Jesus, who came to offer us forgiveness of sins and a relationship with God. God sent his Son to bring us hope, peace, reconciliation and an eternal future with God. Sometimes a very ordinary conversation can plant a seed that will blossom into faith over time.
Make This Christmas Count
These acts needn’t be grand or costly to make a difference.
Let us make the Christmas season count by loving our neighbours. As we’ve seen, these acts needn’t be grand or costly to make a difference. By connecting with your neighbours, you show others the same grace and kindness that we have received through Jesus Christ. In doing so, we reflect Christ’s love and remind our neighbours that they are valued. As we step into the Christmas season, let us challenge ourselves to make at least one meaningful connection with a neighbour. Small expressions of kindness can make a lasting impact, even an eternal one.
