Let's Do (Christmas) Lunch!

Yesterday was the Office Christmas Lunch. This is an annual tradition which involves most of the regular Office Staff here in BCC and is an important way of honouring those who serve so diligently throughout the year. Despite it being a bit earlier than usual (we normally aim to have it sometime after all the major Church Christmas events are over), we dressed up and headed off to a local hotel restaurant for our tasty dinner. I am a firm believer in 'The Double Portion Principle"and was most delighted when Kirsty decided she did not want her pudding and dutifully handed it over to me. Cranberry Cheesecake mmmmm :o)

These end of year events always provide us with an important opportunity to stop and look back at what has happened in the preceding twelve months. For many, the Staff Christmas Party/Lunch is a selfish affair with little or no reference to the consideration and appreciation of others. It is good to thank those who have worked so hard and done so much, none more so than in the Church where the nature of job is much more than just a "9-5" existence.

Looking back I can see how all areas of BCC have prospered in 2009. The Bourne Family Project under Kirsty's leadership has diversified and grown into something very special. For example, the Christmas Hamper initiative started by Clare Morgan through the Storehouse has taken off as local community workers have been nominating needy families and individuals; demand far outstrips supply! Castaways and particularly Wendy's role in running Treasure Tots has grown and established itself as a safe, fun and secure environment for children and carers alike. Aid International continues to quietly get on with the job of raising much needed funds for the various projects in Zambia and beyond, all of which require consistent finance for their day-to-day existence. The Office (no...nothing to do with David Brent lol) runs efficiently with Fran and others managing the administration of a busy Church with assorted ministries, projects and commitments.

It is good to say thank you. It is a simple, but effective way of leaving a Kingdom deposit in someone else's life. This year I felt the Lord wanted me to write a few cards and buy some small gifts for the Staff with whom I work at school. I invested in some small presents and have written the cards and tomorrow, when I go into school, I am going to pray God's blessing and anointing over these little offerings and distribute them to these people.

Proverbs 11:25 says, "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Take some time to pray and listen to the Lord. Take whatever He gives you to others and thank them for who they are and what they do. I realty encourage all of us to make this simpel act of blessing a festive goal as we enter the run up to Christmas 2009. Whether it be at the Staff Christmas Lunch, Party or with family and friends, give out what God gives you and watch the blessing flow (along with the mulled wine and sherry?!).