As part of our Celebration, we focused on bringing the spirit of Christmas – God’s Love – to as many as possible. We put up a invite sign on our gate and served a special meal – complete with pudding – to anyone who came in. We sat with these dear ones as they slowly ate and savoured each bite. Often, they cannot eat too much at once, as their stomachs are only accustomed to small meals. Yet still, a small lady managed to eat two large servings in succession; with obvious enjoyment! What a reminder to be thankful for our blessings, not least of which is having enough to eat. We gladly gave them all take-away bags of food. Their hugs and smiles warmed our hearts, and their happy, positive attitudes amazed us. Another team took a meal and pudding to the local police and fire stations; a small way to thank these community servants for all they do throughout the year. We also gave them a little bag with snacks and other goodies to take home for their children. It was a blessed day, full of joy and love, which is all we could wish for on Christmas. Jesus Christ said in the Bible “As much as you have done unto the least of these my brothers and sisters, you have done it unto Me” (Matthew 25:40)    

The faces of these little ones at Sarah Fox Convalescent Hospital just lit up when we brought them presents and treats. The sweet staff members of the hospital allowed us extra time with each patient so we could talk and play with them after they opened their gifts. Bringing a little Christmas cheer into the wards was both humbling and rewarding for us. We also left gifts for each of the faithful staff members who would be caring for the little patients over the Christmas period.

Once again, our dear friend Annie gathered around 200 children from the Scotsdene/Wallacedene area to come to our special Christmas Party. We all had a great time together, with a jumping castle up for the kids to play on, and each child receiving a toy and a goodie/snack bag, as well as some balloons. The mothers got lotion and sunglasses, which they were thrilled with! Most of all, the highlight for us was being able to show all the children the real Story of Christmas, explaining Jesus’ mission on earth, and praying with them to accept the best Christmas gift ever into their own hearts!  

Last week, at the Sunday School we run off in the Morningstar township off the N7, we spoke to the children about the true meaning of Christmas, and impressed on them how much Jesus loves them. This time, there were many new children. Wonderfully, 33 of these children accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour, receiving the best Christmas gift ever!  

There are a number of families, predominantly white and coloured, that live in this Kraaifontein farm informal settlement. Their needs are often neglected, and they can tend to feel forgotten. In addition to helping them with foodstuffs throughout the year, for Christmas we wanted to remind them that God does care, and loves them greatly. Thus, this event, in which each person received fruits, vegetables, lotion, balloons, and goodie packs with snacks and sweeties. What sweet and precious people, and how glad we are to bring Christmas to them in this way.  

We were able to spoil some expectant mothers from a local crisis centre. It was our great privilege to be able to treat these brave women – who have come through so much – during this difficult time of their lives. Breakfast, gifts, and a whole lot of love filled our time together! (Note: faces blurred to protect privacy)

The children presented the faithful refuse collectors with Christmas parcels full of food and goodies. Such grateful and glad reactions!