Having been convicted this year about helping the poor, we decided to celebrate Christmas a little differently this year. After speaking with a few friends, we came up with a few ideas. I had also come across a movement last year among some believers and churches that was along the lines of what we were feeling. Check out www.adventconspiracy.com for more details. So how was the Barber Christmas different? First, we have limited the amount of presents. Honestly, all five of us have more than we need. We did have some gifts, but this was not the focus. (I found a free dog for Brooke; see the picture below). Second, we gave each other a gift that did not require money. Brandon gave his grandmother the gift of doing some computer work and instruction for her; Scott is cooking dinner once a week for me in January, etc. This was a lot of fun and very meaningful. Finally, Scott and I gave each of the kids some money for them to use to help the poor. We gave a few options like www.worldvision.com and www.dalitfreedomnetwork.org on how to spend their money. We're praying that they, and we, will grow in our desire to help those who have less.
Our prayer is that all of us will focus less on ourselves and more on those in need. Please pray for us as we struggle with what this looks like in our daily life.
