As we approach the Christmas Season, I want to encourage you to seriously consider adopting an outreach project in your very own neighborhood.  Now, I understand your schedules and your to-do-lists.  BUT, for a small fraction of your time, and very little additional $$ spendings, you can make a very strong impact right where you live!

Last night on my Facebook Page, we discussed several ideas that you can use in your neighborhoods.  But this is just a sample of ideas that you could do!

Here is our list.  With each idea, I would suggest that you include a Gospel centered Christmas Card (NOT a tract), a personal note, and a personal invitation to attend your church.  If you are having special Christmas Services (ie:  Christmas Eve Candlelight Service) this is a perfect opportunity to invite.

• Create treat bags for 5-10 of their neighbors with candy.  (This is just like doing a ‘reverse’ Trick or Treat).
• Offer free gift wrapping for your neighbors.
• Pass out hot chocolate and/or coffee in your neighborhood.
• Go door-to-door in your neighborhood and pass out scotch tape.  (admit it, you’ve run out of tape wrapping presents, haven’t you?)
• Take your neighbors a plate of cookies.
• Do home-made Christmas Cards and deliver them in your neighborhood.
• Create and pass out home-made Christmas ornaments.
• If you live in an area that has lots of snow, shovel off your neighbor’s sidewalks and driveways.
• Don’t forget your neighbor’s pets!  Make home-made doggie treats and pass them out.
• Weather permitting, conduct a Backyard Bible Club in your neighborhood during the Christmas holidays.
• Weather permitting, have a Block Party in your driveway and invite the neighbors!

Here are a few additional ideas for outreach in your community!

• (With Permission) pass out cookies at your local gas station.
• (With Permission) offer to wash windows to customers at your local gas station.
• (With Permission) help people carry out their groceries at your local grocery store.
• (With Permission) stay on the parking lot at your local grocery store and offer to return carts back to the cart rack for customers.
• Set up a Blessing Box in your community.

Again, make sure that you include a Gospel themed Christmas Card, a personal note, and a personal invitation to join you at church!

What are some of your ideas that you’ve done or thought of?  Let me hear from you!