Make a Difference in Someone's Life

Have you ever seen The Christmas Box with Richard Thomas? What about the sequel Timepiece? James Earl Jones is in it with Richard Thomas. I grew up watching The Christmas Box. It is one of my family's favorite Christmas movies. I watched the sequel several times. These movies are about love and forgiveness. If you have not seen either of these movies, I recommend you watch them as soon as you can. 

We spent all day at my parents' house on Christmas Day. At night, we watched the sequel with them. I recognized it almost immediately, but my parents had not seen it. Although, it hit me in a new way and reminded me just how precious time is, that life is fleeting. I want to hold on to the present, to not look forward or backward, to take every moment as it comes, and to use it as best as I can with God's grace. It made me realize more deeply how valuable our lives are and how important our mission is on earth. We are unique individually and cannot be repeated. Everyone has their role to play.

In Timepiece, one scene inspired me: a family helping another family in need for Christmas. You have to watch it to find out why. It brought everyone joy. I realized in a profound way that the world needs what was shown in this scene. People are hurting in some way and need help.

I believe that violence and hate comes from one painful experience after another. The hurt is nurtured and grows. Eventually, it explodes. Plus, we have fallen human nature and sin in the mix. If more people helped someone in need, I think we would see fewer wars. 

I propose a challenge for each of us. First, watch the movies I mentioned. Then, we talk to our families about helping a family in need during this Christmas Season. It can be very simple if we, ourselves, are struggling, for all of us are in some way, but we need to be the light in the darkness. It has to start somewhere. Faith, hope and love is needed. When we are struggling with something, charity can really help us in our own situation as well. We can make a difference in someone's life. It can be contagious. We might find ourselves wanting to do more.