Day 1--Christmas In Liberia

As you begin to celebrate Christmas with your loved ones, I just wanted to give you a glimpse of Christmas in Liberia. First of all, you people are amazing! Because of the generosity of others, there are 353 Christmas bundles ready to be delivered in Liberia! Deb and Matt have been hard at work--Christmas shopping, putting bundles together and then throwing Christmas parties at orphanages. Well, that last part isn't exactly hard work. But it is a very special time of year for the kids. They get their own bundle with candy, a small toy, school supplies, a new outfit and a pair of slippers. The most treasured thing inside each bundle is an apple! Apple's are a big deal in Liberia! First of all, the kids only get an apple on Christmas, but more importantly, an apple in Liberia is a symbol of love. So essentially, each child is receiving a bundle of love (and some fun things) for Christmas! Love from people half way around the world who bought the bundle. Love from their ORR uncles and aunties. Love from a Savior who came into this world for us. Sometimes I think...if only we would get this concept....a simple apple and Christ coming into the world because of His love for us. But instead we tend to get caught up in everything else--lights, trees, gifts, food, shopping, accumulating more, stress, a good parking spot, etc.

Here are a few photos from the Christmas deliveries that have already happened in Liberia. Look at the joy!

And if the photos don't say it all, then here's a look at Christmas in Liberia last year!

Christmas in Liberia 2010 from Orphan Relief and Rescue on Vimeo.

Please take the time this Christmas to slow down and to reflect on the true meaning on Christmas. Think about why we celebrate, and maybe challenge your family or friends to think about Christmas differently this year. Also, take a minute to pray for the kids in Liberia this Christmas. They don't have a Christmas tree or lights, but they have joy and hope and reason to celebrate! And if you forgot...just think about an apple--love.

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!