In an effort to reach out to those around you, determine to provide free child care for a young married couple so they can go shopping or simply spend some time together. As a supplemental step, invite this family to your home for dinner and a holiday movie. Consider other ways you can invest in young married families.
Take part in an activity similar to Angel Tree; purchase some items for the Nashville Toy Store; or identify another place where you can serve in the church or community. If you live in an empty nest, recall the kinds of ministries you enjoyed with your children and volunteer to be a part of those ministries again.
Work with some friends to identify a group of "secret friends" from another age group in the church. Commit to sending your secret friend a few anonymous notes through the Advent season and let him or her know that you will be praying on his or her behalf during the holidays. As Christmas draws closer, select a special gift to share with your secret friend and reveal your identity.
As a journaling exercise, write a letter to Jesus, telling Him how you feel about His willingness to come to earth and your gratitude for His gift of eternal life. If you struggle with the holidays, share these emotions with Jesus as well. Later in the Advent season, write another letter that reflects Jesus' response to your letter. Share what you believe He would say and what He would want you to know this holiday season.
