Prepping for Christmas on any level is a whirlwind of activity. Prepping for RETA’s Christmas store takes it to an entirely different level.This was my first year observing the Christmas store, and I had no idea the amount of planning, coordinating, and problem solving involved to make it all happen, especially on Angie’s end. The end result, however, is one of the most beautiful rewards ever.
First of all, the generosity of our donors overwhelmed and humbled me. The outpouring of gifts and money is stunning. On one Friday, the front office space was packed with so many incoming toys that there was barely a path to maneuver through them. When clients were able to shop at the Christmas store, their faces registered surprise, joy, gratitude, some even showing tears. When given the opportunity to write a short thank you, they wrote heartfelt messages as shown in the following examples: “I’m so thankful for the opportunity to share with [my boys] how thoughtful, selfless and generous you’ve been to make this possible.” “I can’t put it into words! This is a great organization to have donated the great gifts. Just know they went to a good family in need this year.” “It’s one thing to offer programs and help to the community, but the staff and volunteers have such compassion and love for what they do!” “This place is an answered prayer. Thank you for making this possible. I’ve been stressed about how I will buy Christmas gifts for my family, and now I don’t have to worry!” These are only a handful of the thank you notes we received.
Finally, sharing the Christmas story with our clients is a profoundly moving experience. One young mom with whom I shared the Christmas packet had little exposure to Christianity.When we talked about the uncertainty and bewilderment in her own life, I was able to talk to her about my own story and how faith in Christ was my stabilizer, how I never felt alone. We were able to examine how Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men all had to take that leap of faith even though they were very much in the dark. As Roxana once shared with the staff, our job is to have the conversation; the Holy Spirit’s job is the conversion. The Christmas store intentionally provided such an awesome opportunity to do so.
by Kathy, Receptionist