A Touching Tale

At last it was nearly all over. Four Fridays of Christmas Cafe nearly done. Over 140 children had come and heard the Christmas story but the cafe part had been very quiet. Until the last night. Pageant Night with the band playing outside, the sausages sizzling and the hum of conversation and the aroma of good coffee filling the Church Hall.
At dark the fireworks display began and all went outside to watch except for me and one other helper. Suddenly in came a little boy and his mother. He had his fingers in his ears and tears in his eyes. His mother had told him that he would be safe here and we wouldn't mind him coming in. So we wiped his tears, gave him a honey biscuit and his mum hugged him till it was all over.
My aching feet and my frustration that the coffee didn't froth properly were gone. If one small boy knew that he could find comfort and safety and love in the church and with the church family then our job was done.

Christmas Cards

Yesterday morning at church I was handing out thank you cards to people who supported the Christmas Cafe and was somewhat intrigued by some responses.
"You aren't handing out Christmas cards are you?"
"Not a Christmas card, I hope. I thought I'd finished mine."
It's that whole thing of if I give a Christmas card the other person will have to reciprocate.
Likewise the advice o keep a few spare presents wrapped in case someone gives you one unexpectedly.
The first card I was given this year was from someone I see regularly and hug most Sundays and I will most likely be able to greet her on Christmas morning. I ddon' think I need to give her a card just because she gave me one. Will she be ticking off those who respond and if so does it matter.
Wouldn't it be good if we could give and receive gifts without strings attached, without expecting anything in return or feeling obliged to pay back.