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

Have you ever received a handmade gift?

There is something beautiful that happens when our hands and hearts come together to make something. “Made with love” is more than just a label on a hand-knit sweater or plate of homemade cookies—it also describes how God created us!

At Christmas, we celebrate that God sent Jesus to the whole world, and yet each one of us can have a relationship with Him that is unique as a handmade gift. As we read the Bible, we can see the way Jesus invited people to follow Him was specific to who and where they were, what they had experienced in life, and what they longed for most.

Jesus’ life was full of love.

There is nothing mass-produced about our salvation. Jesus' gift to us was costly, personal and something only He could do.

During the cold season in the mountains of southern Peru, temperatures frequently drop to fifteen below zero. Work is scarce and crops don’t grow. Livestock is easily lost to the cold. Without electric heat and sufficient clothing, children are especially vulnerable. In this frozen place, Flora worked to support her family through childcare and making creative crafts to sell, but it was a struggle. She prayed that God would see her and help.

Photo Caption: Sthefany receives a warm blanket from her church.

Flora’s prayers were answered the day a local church announced a new program for children in their village. At the Compassion centre, Flora’s daughter Sthefany learned about God’s love for her. The staff visited the family, gifting food baskets, warm winter coats, high-quality blankets, and—most exciting to Flora—yarn for her to knit sweaters in just the right size for her kids. Just what they needed!

Photo Caption: Stefani with handcrafts made by her mother.

As the church learned of Flora’s abilities, they hired her to teach the women of the village to make crafts for income. Soon, this successful business allowed the women to creatively provide for their families! The church was able to respond in one-of-a-kind ways to love their neighbours, demonstrating God’s one-of-a-kind love.

Like an artist, God weaves the threads of our life together to tell a handmade story. His plan for our lives will bring joy to the world. What can you do to bring the message and joy of Jesus to others in your own unique way this Christmas season?