by Elder Aries de Vera
Reading for the day: John 6:35
Every Christmas season, part of my playlist is the iconic song Do They Know It’s Christmas? by Band Aid. Forty years ago today, it was officially released on December 7, 1984, a charity song written by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure and recorded by popular musical artists at the time. Do They Know It’s Christmas? was a cry for compassion in the midst of a devastating famine in Ethiopia.
Its haunting lyrics and powerful melody urged the world to remember those suffering from hunger and to take action. The song became a symbol of global unity and collective responsibility, raising millions of dollars for famine relief.
As followers of Christ, this message can inspire us to see an even greater famine—the spiritual hunger that plagues our world today. In the Old Testament, the prophet Amos speaks of a time of famine that is coming. Not a hunger for food or water, but for hearing the Word of the Lord.
“The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign Lord, “when I will send a famine through the land – not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.” (Amos 8:11)
While physical hunger must never be ignored, we as believers are called to address this deeper hunger by sharing the Gospel to all. Our Lord Jesus himself declares in John 6:35.
“I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
In the same way Band Aid’s song challenged the world to respond to physical hunger, we are challenged to respond to the spiritual needs of those around us. This is our mission: to bring the light of Christ to a dark and broken world (Matthew 28:19-20). Where there is despair, we offer hope. Where there is hatred, we offer love. Where there is brokenness, we proclaim healing through the Gospel.
Where there is despair, we offer hope. Where there is hatred, we offer love. Where there is brokenness, we proclaim healing through the Gospel.
Just as the proceeds from Do They Know It’s Christmas? were used to feed the hungry and save lives, the Gospel has the power to transform hearts and bring eternal life (Luke 4:18). And this is where the Home Free Global Crusade plays a big role in bringing God’s word in our time. One of the apostolic legacies of the Goodman of the House, Home Free was initiated and started by Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol as a powerful platform to reach out to the lost and needy. Through our helping hands and prayers, it continues to be an effective tool that can unleash the power of the Gospel to people around the world.
The Gospel is not only a message of salvation but also one of healing and restoration. Through the power of Christ, we can address the deep wounds of sin, injustice, and suffering that plague our world. And in our own little way, we can be that person that God can use to bring people close to Him.
This Christmas season, let us make every effort to make our lights shine brighter to a place darkened by sin and hopelessness. As we enjoy the grace and blessings from Above during the holidays, let us also remember those who are in need of our care. As we feast on our bountiful tables, let us open our eyes and see the needs of the people in scarcity of spiritual food. We can make a difference. We can make a change. Let us share the blessings of Christmas to everyone – proclaiming God’s message of hope, love, true joy and eternal peace!
Reflect: Think about how the words of God have changed your life and what makes celebrating Christmas more meaningful.
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