A Global Advent: 25 Stories of God With Us Around the WorldExemplo

Do you have a favourite Christmas album?

Some songs hold special meaning for us, and others inspire wonder and worship. Music has a way of connecting like almost nothing else. Unless you’re standing in a checkout listening to the same pop ballad about falling snow or jingle bells for the fiftieth time, music can bring joy!

You probably know many Christmas carols and other works of art were created by artists employed by the Church. Silent Night and the Sistine Chapel have one important thing in common—they were an offering to God meant to draw us into worship through an encounter with something beautiful rather than merely useful—that’s what makes them a gift.

God’s gifts create joy in us, joy in our communities, and flourishing in our world. These gifts can be talents, interests, even resources, and opportunities. Without exception, these gifts grow when we give them away.

For young Mackenley living in Haiti, the opportunity to learn music at his local church was a gift. In a country that has bravely faced so much suffering with so few resources, a child-like Mackenley with a single mother and six siblings faced a difficult future.

Photo Caption: Mackenley plays guitar in Haiti.

The Compassion centre at his church provided Mackenley with opportunities he never dreamed were possible. As a busy and curious child, he thrived in theatre, music, and tech training. Soon, singing and guitar became his passion, and he developed his skills in audio engineering and recording. The training was helpful, but Mackenley says the true gift was support and the example of hard work that allowed him to succeed. It wasn’t just an instrument that he needed—Mackenley flourished when the people of God saw his gift and encouraged him.

Photo Caption: Mackenley working with technology he uses to mix sound and record music.

After winning singing competitions in his region, he entered a national competition and earned recognition and equipment to continue his art. He now leads worship in his local church using his creative gifts for God’s glory and makes his living as a professional musician!

Jesus came to be ‘God with us’ and give Himself as a gift. You are also a gift to those around you.

Consider giving gifts to loved ones this year that encourage their creativity or a hobby they find joy in. How can you encourage them with your presence to pursue these with excellence? Your encouragement of a gift might just be the best gift of all!