If Christmas is a celebration of Christ's birth, how do we give presents directly to him? After all it is his birthday, not ours. (By the way I'm not a churchgoer, and I hope this little note doesn't sound preachy, but rather practical and considerate.)

Here's his answer: "...I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me..." (from Matthew 25). The needy are among us, but often invisible. Embarrassment and pride may prevent them from speaking up about their needs.

Some local, regional and national charitable/inspirational organizations I like are: The Oregon Food Bank, Northwest Medical Teams, the Oregonian's Season of Sharing, and World Concern. There are many others such as Amnesty International, Oxfam, Habitat for Humanity and your local Humane Society. Last but not least, Wycliffe Bible Translators. All of these appreciate consistent support throughout the year.

Be a wise, intelligent giver. Check out these on line resources: Better Business Bureau, and ECFA (a Christian financial accountablity organization) for starters. Hearts and Minds has a wealth of information and inspiration such as Wise Giving to Charities and Effective Donations.

More watchdog type organizations (added later): National Charities Information Bureau (free: The Wise Giving Guide), American Institute of Philanthropy, and Guidestar (info about more than 650,000 non-profit organizations). Info in this paragraph came from Consumers Union Insider newsletter, Fall, 1999.

Remember Scrooge. "God loves a cheerful giver". Merry Christmas!

Art by Simantel