Show Notes
Chris Johnston, a member of the donor ministries team at Samaritan’s Purse, sat down with Kristy Graham to share about what is on his heart during this season, and how the Christmas catalog is a Gospel tool that families can use to teach their children about generosity. The Christmas catalog allows people to respond to needs around the world in a tangible, practical way, and most importantly, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
“That's why this catalog is such a great tool, no matter the age. It's useful in families or churches, even school groups or small groups can use this as a way of looking beyond themselves and looking to the needs in the world.”—Chris Johnston
Chris shared a story about a 6-year-old girl named Emma, who wanted to help provide for a freshwater well. Emma gave all the money that she received from her grandparents for Christmas that year—but she did not stop there. She took every opportunity to speak at churches and talk with others about building freshwater wells. Little by little, she raised money, and five years later, she accomplished her goal. The Lord captured a 6-year old’s heart to give generously of her time and money.
Chris shares Scripture that displays God’s heart—He is a giver. Because God freely gave us His Son, Jesus, we can, in turn, give freely. Chris and his family look through the Christmas Catalog each year, cut out a photo that corresponds to the project they want to give toward, and place that somewhere in their home as a reminder to pray.
“But when we are moved to give, we're being like Him. We have His image imprinted on us. So, whenever we are being generous, we're getting really close to what is the center of God's heart in giving of Himself.”—Chris Johnston
Kristy and Chris talk about this Thanksgiving season, and how we as Christians should practice gratitude daily. Everything good in our lives, every gift, comes from God, so we should thank Him and give Him all the glory.
“But to recognize these are good gifts from our loving Father, and to be thankful, but not to forget they came from Him.”—Chris Johnston
Please pray that the catalog gifts purchased this Christmas will touch many lives around the world. Pray also that many people would come to Christ during this season that celebrates His birth. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories from On the Ground, please visit samaritanspurse.org.
During the holiday season, things get really busy. It's easy to focus on all the things that we need to get done, and it is easy to lose sight of what is truly important. Chris Johnston, who serves on our donor ministries team, encourages listeners to fix their eyes on Jesus. Chris talks with Kristy about how we can use the Samaritan's Purse Christmas Catalog to share the Gospel around the world.
Resources
· Check out the 2024 Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Catalog.
· Have you heard the Good News of Salvation?
· Listen to “Revival After Disaster” to hear how the Church is stepping up in places like Brazil and Jamaica to share the Gospel with their neighbors in the wake of disasters.