Ringing the bell for the Salvation Army had been my desire through many Christmas seasons, and I finally decided to act on it and sign up this year. Over the course of five Saturdays at different locations I was blessed by interactions with people. There were friendly greetings exchanged, nice words spoken, laughter shared, and occasionally tears shed with a hug. I enjoyed the children dropping coins into the kettle. Some were shy about approaching and held onto the accompanying adult’s hand. On the very coldest day, kind hearts provided coffee and hot chocolate intermittently through the afternoon into the evening. Cups of hot liquid warmed my body in the night air, while the compassion and generosity of strangers warmed my heart. I smiled in awe through tears at God’s care for me through those special hands.

Countless people came and went continuously throughout the day at the different stores. Some prayer needs were readily apparent, while others were more subtle. One woman’s eyes, as she spoke of her daughter who used to enjoy putting money in the kettle, prompted silent prayer as she walked to her car. A man’s voice trembled with emotion as he spoke of prayer for his mother. Another woman was facing a family crisis. A woman with dire health issues was in distress, struggling to find transportation home. A trucker shared that he and his wife with their dogs were stuck in a hotel locally, after his semi broke down on the interstate, and repairs were estimated to take a week. A man talked about taking care of his friend who was dying of cancer and the losses in his life. I observed numerous needs unspoken. People everywhere are starving for love. God’s divine love. His miraculous conquering, healing, restoring love. Love without measure or motive.

I smiled at a pair of little girls skipping to the kettle, their ponytails bobbing in unison. I smiled at little voices asking questions such as “Who is that lady?” “Why is she ringing that bell?” “What is the Salvation Army?” One mother asked me to share with her son what the organization does with the money. I smiled at precious little ones saying “Merry Christmas”! I waved back at the hands waving from car windows as they drove by. Miles of smiles! Moments of simple pleasures strung together, creating wonderful memories of bell ringing. The opportunity to serve and experience such joy was a beautiful gift of Christmas from Above.

May God bless people all over the world with a touch from heaven this Christmas, with the grace to accept His precious love and share with others.