The Miracle of Christmas

with gifts, that gifts come in many forms. Sometimes they come in the form of toys or a meal, while other times it’s the opportunity to see family and friends or catch up on some much needed time off from work.

This year we have the opportunity to serve thousands of families through our annual event, Christmas Shoppe, it will be a day of all kinds of gifts being given. There will be the aforementioned gifts and then there will be the gifts that represent the true miracle of Christmas; joy, hope, and love. There will be joy spread from presents selected, treats eaten, and music heard. Hope will be shared between volunteers and guests as relationships are built and communities are brought together. And, love will be felt through the gentle hand of Christ and his overwhelming gift of salvation.

As the Holy spirit stirs the generosity of the Ventura County churches, toys and volunteers seem to pour in reminding us that we can share the true gift of Christmas by giving to others. Thus bringing to life the old adage, It is better to give than to receive.

“Miracles just don’t happen without the activity of the Holy Spirit. It was true then for this amazing event and it’s true now. So here is a lesson for all of us from the Christmas story, and it applies to us not just at Christmas, but every other day of our lives. We cannot live the life God wants for us, and achieve the dreams he has for us, without the power of the Holy Spirit. “ –Wally Odom (in the context of the miracle birth of Jesus)