Luke 3:9-11

Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” And the crowds asked him, “What, then, should we do?” In reply he said to them, “Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none, and whoever has food must do likewise.”

Gladys Porter became Mayor of Kentville, NS in 1946 and served as Mayor until 1960. She was the first woman mayor in the Maritimes and she became the first female member of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 1960. I grew up in Kentville and lived on the same street as she. As busy as she was, I was later told by her daughter that every Christmas she would make fruit cakes to give to less fortunate families to help make their Christmas a little extra special. She would spend a whole day at it until they were done, often times late into the night. I sometimes think of her story when I make cookies to give to others.

There are many local organizations that make it their mission to give to others at Christmas time. Coats for Cumberland County is a local organization encouraging people to donate gently used outer wear helping families in need. Our church raises funds to create Christmas Cheer boxes to help provide Christmas dinners for the less fortunate. Another example is Christmas for Kids providing gift wishes for children. There are many other resources for those in need throughout the year, not just at Christmas, as can be found at 211 Nova Scotia . I am very glad that the spirit of Christmas shines through in many ways all year to help others in need.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for your teaching and guiding us that we should show acts of kindness to others in need, reflecting your principles of caring for others and God's love for all his children. Amen.

- Judy Noonan-Sutherland