Write a better story this Christmas...

I am constantly being challenged by my community of faith, The Meeting House. From the emphasis on subversive spirituality, to being relentlessly relational, to being a "Christ-follower" not just a "Christian", to living simply so other might simply live...the past 3 years have been life changing.

Our church is endeavoring to raise millions of dollars to double the capacity of our partner, Mennonite Central Committee as they address HIV & AIDS and extreme poverty in southern Afirca.

This Christmas our church is challenging us to put together AIDS care kits for the thousands of home care volunteers who provide comfort every day to people living with HIV and AIDS.

An AIDS care kit consists of: Contents (NEW items only)

* 1 bar bath soap (110-140g / 4-5oz; in wrapper)
* 1 bath towel (medium weight, bright color)
* 1 washcloth (bright color)
* 2 flat bed sheets (twin-size)
* 2 pillowcases (standard size)
* 2 yards fabric (poly-cotton, bright color)
* 1 pair rubber gloves (large size, for household cleaning)
* 1 container petroleum jelly (approx. 368g / 13oz; sealed in plastic bag)
* 1 container medicated body powder (e.g., Gold Bond; approx 283g / 10oz)
* $100 to purchase medicines and Bibles for people living with AIDS, to train volunteers in home health care, and to provide food and travel allowances for volunteers.

Even if The Meeting House is not your home, why not take up the challenge? Gather together friends, family, co-workers and put together a kit! You can find out more information on the MCC Website, and find out where you can get involved!

As we navigate the waters of our culture and it's narcissistic tendencies, and of course the beginning of the season where we often overspend, just not our money, but ourselves...get back to what counts, to what matters.

I will leave you with this quote from Bono, and hope that it reminds you of the chance we have to write a better story for our world:

"It's an amazing thing to think that ours is the first generation in history that really can end extreme poverty, the kind that means a child dies for lack of food in its belly. That should be seen as the most incredible, historic opportunity but instead it's become a millstone around our necks. We let our own pathetic excuses about how it's "difficult" justify our own inaction. Be honest. We have the science, the technology, and the wealth. What we don't have is the will, and that's not a reason that history will accept."

- Bono, U2