As Christmas Day approaches, I am reminded anew that we are again waiting for our King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus the Christ. This time, though, we are waiting for Christ’s final return when the kingdom of the world becomes the kingdom of the Lord. (Rev. 11:15). What are we to do as we wait? Will there be service (sacrifice) in our celebration? I am convinced that how we wait, (that is, what we do with our time), is a reflection of our faith.

The Paterson churches in membership with Star of Hope are preparing for Christmas by planning for parties in every community they represent. We are blessed that God has provided opportunity for us to share life with broken people, (such as ourselves), in bringing glory to His name. We are pleased to support these churches by providing resources to make their parties celebratory. Not only have our members seen an increase in community residents requesting help, but also in program participation, volunteerism and in service attendance on Sundays. Praise the Lord. As we wait together, we are binding the wounds of the sin sick and brokenhearted by preaching the good news of the gospel and feel compelled to celebrate that our once dead neighbor now lives because of the gift of our savior, Jesus Christ!

As we sit at the feet of our Lord and Savior this Christmas, we want to bring honor to His name through the shared blessings of fellowship over refreshments and family gifts. We will provide new clothing to withstand the cold winter season such as sweaters, hats, gloves, and scarves. New toys, craft kits, and board games are a good complement to warm clothing as the children’s faces brighten when a toy or game is revealed. Blankets and flannel sheets are especially needed as we embrace increased numbers of homeless persons and people displaced by the devastating effects of hurricane Irene. We realize that to provide this type of resource it will take sacrificial giving however we also believe this world belongs to God and everything in it. Will He, the giver of every perfect gift, not graciously provide for us as we give out of what He has given us?

Listed below is a guide of suggested donation amounts to allow us to provide these gifts in support of our member churches. You are receiving this appeal because you have surrendered your life to God and look forward to His soon coming kingdom. Consider then, how you will spend your time waiting and search your heart in deciding how you will respond. Trust God to guide and bless your giving. The celebration of Christmas belongs to all of the family of God and your participation is a wonderful reminder of what it means to belong. Thank you.