GAINESVILLE, Ga. (BP)--The holiday season is here, offering an almost continual opportunity to celebrate with our loved ones. Blessings are counted, gifts are given and large meals are devoured. But many people in our communities and in our own church congregations have little means with which to celebrate. This presents a great opportunity for us to model generosity and to bless those who are in need, showing them the love of Christ and the true meaning of the season.

In the familiar story of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31), Jesus showed us two lives. One was filled with plenty, luxury, and excess, while the other was filled with poverty, want and pain. The Bible does not teach that it is a sin to be wealthy, nor was the rich man condemned simply because he had much. The rich man was punished because he put his faith in his possessions, not in God. He is an example of someone living in man's economy, where wealth, power and possessions are the goals for which to strive. He missed a great opportunity to make a difference in someone's life, to serve God, and to live in God's Economy, where peace, joy and eternal blessings are given. We can learn a great lesson from the rich man.

-- See the need. The need was right outside the rich man's door. Every day, the rich man had to pass by Lazarus, who was literally laid at the rich man's gate (Luke 16:20). Yet, the Scripture does not say that the rich man ever offered to help Lazarus. Many times, we don't need to look any further than our own churches and communities to find a need. Take a close look around you. Once you recognize the need, you can think of ways to help fill that need. What are the needs in your sphere of influence?

-- Share your resources. The rich man had plenty to eat, while Lazarus longed for merely the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table (Luke 16:21). We may not think we have much to offer, but God can use whatever He has given us to fill the needs around us. Giving of our time and talents are just as important as monetary gifts. Take inventory of your resources and talents. What has God given you that you can use for His glory?