By Lori Dixon

16 November 2017—Thanksgiving is just days away and many are already deep into preparation for the arrival of family and friends. Seemingly endless to-do lists are being created to ensure that nothing is missed for the picture-perfect meal to share with those we love. Shared traditions include ushering in Christmas with decorating and Black Friday shopping strategizing as soon as the last fork-full has been consumed. In all the busyness and the desire to get things just right, I wonder if we spend as much time preparing our hearts, beginning with entering in with a grateful heart.

Last year Forest Hill Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, created a video that went viral, a video centered on gratitude for what we already have. What if we began with just that—being grateful for all that we have and often take for granted. From this overflow—having all that we need—we can then turn our hearts to making a difference through thoughtful giving so that others might receive.

This year, consider giving a gift or stocking stuffer that will make a difference for Christ around the world. You can purchase gift cards through Global Strategy that will bring life-change through projects that feed children, provide training and micro-loans to help pastors and church leaders create sustainable income, give animals to families to provide regular income, support the ministry of missionaries, and so much more. Check out charlesr13.sg-host.com/impactX2 for more information about projects and to purchase gift cards. Because of generous donors, the first $36,000 in donations received between November 10 and December 31 will be matched.

“You give what’s good when you give what’s in your hands—but you give what’s eternal when you give what’s in your heart.” —Ann Voskamp

Wherever you gather, whether around a bountiful or “just enough” table with loved ones, in an airport or truck stop, or serve at a local rescue mission or church—may this year, more than any other, be one where our hearts turn towards bringing the hope, love and joy of Jesus Christ to all that we encounter.