Thanksgiving and Christmas should be some of the easiest times of the year for us to share the Gospel with our neighbors, co-workers, family, and friends. As Christians, we have so much to be thankful for and joyful about because of what Christ has done for us! Yet, our schedules can quickly fill leaving us feeling like we have no time. We have listed a number of ideas for you to help you connect with others this season.

• Add a seat at the table: One of my favorite workshops at the 2022 Proclaim Truth Conference was entitled “The Church is God’s Family.” Julie Wilding reminded us that the church is a gift from God. It is God’s family. For some in our churches, those who are single, live far from relatives, are widowed, or orphaned, church may be the only family gathering they have all week. This November, consider who may not have somewhere to gather with others on Thanksgiving. Invite them and add a seat at your table!

• Snacks for neighbors: After living in our neighborhood for 14 years, I have noticed the majority of our neighbors decorate the outside of their homes on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Set up a table outside with hot cocoa and holiday treats so they can munch while decorating.

• Remember college students: You may remember reading a previous blog on Loved Bible Going to College. Most students are wrapping up their semester with finals quickly approaching. It is a great time to drop a care package in the mail. Include a few Loved Bible inserts and fun snacks.

• Cookie Exchange: Organize a cookie exchange. Invite others to bring a batch of their favorite Christmas treats and recipes!  

• Send a Card: Let’s be honest, everyone loves getting Christmas cards in the mail.  Every year, we mail a card including our family photo and a Scripture verse.  When we receive Christmas cards, we save them as visual reminders to pray for the senders throughout the year. 

• Invite someone to church:  People are more likely to accept an invitation to church during the Christmas season. Invite a non-christian friend to attend with you. Plan ahead to meet them in the parking lot and invite them to get lunch after the service.

• Drop off a care package:  Think of someone who might be lonely during this season such as someone who recently lost a loved one, relocated, or is having health problems. Gather a few sweet treats, a candle, and a card to show care!

• Carols and Cookies: Gather a group to sing Christmas carols. Print out the lyrics to make sure everyone will know the words. Serve cookies and coffee/hot cocoa afterwards.  

• Host a Birthday Party for Jesus: Invite children from your neighborhood or school friends of your children. Serve a birthday cake. Have party hats. Plan a few games and crafts. Read the Christmas story from The Jesus Storybook Bible.

• Serve: Offer to help a widow in your church or the community decorate for Christmas. Go Christmas caroling at a local nursing home. Gather neighbors to participate in a Reverse Advent Calendar. Instead of opening a window and getting a treat, you place a food item donation from your pantry in a box each day and deliver to a local food bank at the end of the month.

• Host an Open House: Host an open house with cookies, hot cocoa, coffee, etc. Invite your neighbors, co-workers, and friends from church.

November and December provide lots of opportunities to be on mission in your community. We hope some of these ideas work in your context.  

Which ideas will you try this season?