This Christmas will be a tough time for some. They may be struggling to make ends meet, or grieving from the loss of a loved one. With joblessness at a 10-year high because of Covid-19, we are likely to know someone who is discouraged and could do with some help and comfort. 1 John 3:16–18 reminds us:

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

So, taking into heart this call from the Apostle John, how about considering these 4 kind things we can easily do this Christmas?

Though we may not be able to gather in big groups for a Christmas meal, nothing’s stopping us from sending food to bless another family. Those among us who are great cooks and bakers may want to whip up something nice. But if you’re like me and not much of a cook, we can always order a nice meal and have it delivered to someone’s home. Who knows, this kind gesture may remind someone that God cares and will provide for them.

Many families are struggling in this economic crisis. We can send them gifts for their children—it’s bound to put a smile on their faces! Who knows, you may also put something in their hearts: when I was young, a few kids in the neighbourhood and I decided to hold a gift exchange among ourselves. Though we came from non-Christian families, somehow we knew that Christmas is a time of giving gifts. Perhaps that helped to soften my heart to eventually receive the greatest gift of all—Jesus.

A stranger may need our help today. Recently, while taking a Grab ride, I chatted with the driver and found that he struggled to cover his costs on some days. He remained thankful and cheerful, however, saying he would do his best to take care of his family of five children, while making sure to spend enough time with them. Touched by his dedication, I decided to give him a tip via the app. It wasn’t a lot, and the driver probably wouldn’t know that it was from me. But I know God would be pleased—and hopefully, that hardworking driver, too.

When was the last time you sent someone a Christmas card? To be frank, I can’t remember when I last did it. Sending e-greetings over WhatsApp has saved me the hassle of buying a card, writing a note (and also saving the recipient the pain of trying to decipher my handwriting), buying a stamp, and posting it. But I know e-greetings can lack one important element—the personal touch. My brother received a card from his friend recently, and he said: “This friend is really nice and faithful. He bothers to send a card every year.”

This Christmas, how about showing God’s love in a practical way? Let us “not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18).

What act of kindness will you do this Christmas?