Christmas Cards

Late November and early December can find mailboxes beginning to fill with colorful Christmas cards. Pictures of crosses, Scripture verses about Jesus, and snow covered scenes often adorn the front of the cards. Some days, there are many cards and other days there are one or two. Over the years, e-cards and paper cards have brought joy and smiles to the receiver and the sender.

When asking friends and family how they felt about sending greetings via snail mail, the answer was almost the same every time. People like to send and receive mail. E-cards are special, too, and can be a great alternative for sending a hello.

The cost of postage has prevented some folks from mailing cards. Lists are created and only close family and friends find a card in their mailbox. Other people find meaningful cards in their email box. Each greeting is unique and special.

Whether sending a card in the mail or an e-card, this is a good way to keep in touch and let people know they are loved. Some families create cards together. Sharing time with children and having them express their creativity with crayons, markers, stickers, and more while making cards can be a delightful time for everyone.
I’ve heard of dog owners who help their pet sign a card with a paw print.
There are many unique ideas to express the love and joy of Christmas.

I enjoy participating in a group that sends cards to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and to people who live alone. Giving these cards are ways of showing the love of Christ. Each time a card is placed in the hands or lap of a resident, that person is being shown love and care.
I may not know the person receiving the card, but I do know that God loves them.

My mother lived in assisted living and a nursing home the last years of her life. I’ve also worked and volunteered in nursing homes. Some residents have many visitors and find lots of cards in their mailbox. Other people have no visitors or few visitors and don’t receive much mail.

The expressions on the folks who are given cards at Christmas and at other times of the year brings tears to my eyes. The smiles and sometimes tears of each person show how much the effort is appreciated. A simple card is a reminder that someone is thinking about them. If e-cards are not an option, I mail or hand deliver Christmas cards.

This act of kindness can brighten the life of everyone.

God calls us to love one another. In every moment of each day, we have the opportunity to lead others closer to Him through our words and actions.
Do you send Christmas cards? How do you send them? Snail mail or e-card? How do you feel when you receive a card?

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34 NIV)

In His Name,
Melissa Henderson