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SEEDS in SEASON Editing

SEEDS in SEASON Writing

Writers: NEEDED! Your contributory submissions! Check guidelines and current essays. DEADLINE for holiday issue- extended.

Tis the season. You may ask; "Isn't it early for Christmas?" It is, and it isn't. Of course, we've always been taught to practice the Christmas spirit all year. This year it's especially needed.


This year is different. Our charity needs to begin now, and often. There are many, many neighbors suffering the loss of jobs, cars, and health care. Perhaps you are in that same situation.


I have learned that whenever we are facing troubles, it helps to think of others who have greater needs. In this day, it is especially true. Think of what you do have, not of what you do not. What can you share?


Many churches are sponsoring canned goods drives. Be a part. How can you go further? Remember that Salvation Army and other charitable organizations offer soup kitchens or other meals. What can you offer? Perhaps you can give your time.


Some public service organizations in your community are suffering losses as well. It is a struggle to keep operating. What can you donate to the administrational offices at the local crisis pregnancy center or literary center? What about the abused family rescue home, the firehouse, the hospitality group at the health care center, or the clothing exchange shop? Is there something you can give to make their office work easier?


Because of past power outages and the very real promise of more, we are becoming more frugal. We are stocking bottled water, lamp oil, kerosene, and flashlights as well as the typical canned goods. Be prepared enough to share with a neighbor who hasn't planned ahead.


During hard times, our priorities will change as well. What do we really cherish? What can we do without? How can you change things to make something better, or make it last longer. You may be surprised at your own answers.


God will take care of us. Yet, He has also given us intelligence and creativity to use when needed. He does not expect us to set our brains on a shelf and depend on Him to rain food into our laps.(although it happened with manna!) He uses many tools for that to happen, in His way, in His time, and for the best result. We can go steps further by helping others in need. By focusing on others, we lose sight of our own troubles. In this light, we will glorify His name.


"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." Psalm 23:1


April Boyer © 2008



April Boyer is a free lance writer in mid Ohio, wife, mother of two and Gramma Apple to two precious gems. She has published more than 47 articles in regional and national magazines and newspapers, and additional devotionals in e-zines. She is the retired founder and director of the 6-year old Ashland Area Christian Writer's Guild, and has printed a handbook, How to Establish a Christian Writer's Group, available for sale through her website http://aprilboyer.com. Pages on the website include her own writing services, writer's tips, encouragement, inspiration and a Bible study. Please mail requests or questions to April through her website contact page.