The Meaning of Christmas

The real meaning of Christmas is often overlooked by the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season with Black Friday sales, holiday parties, white elephant gifts, Santa, Christmas decorations, and of course presents.  As Christians, we need to make sure we do not fall into the trap of "American Christmas".  Instead, we need to make a concerted effort to focus on Christ and to celebrate Him.  Empty Plate Love is just one way we are attempting to focus on Christ this Advent Season leading up to Christmas. Jesus came to this world as a baby boy, lived a sinless life, took the penalty for our sin on the cross, rose from the dead on the third day, and gives life to those who believe.  That is sacrificial love.  We not only want to remember the love Jesus had for us, but show that love to others as he has sent us on mission.

What is Empty Plate Love?

This Christmas, consider showing the love of Christ to the world with an empty plate.  At every meal,  set an empty plate at the table to remind yourself of others in the world that we need to show love to.  Many of them are without food, water, clothes, health, families, Bibles, freedom, etc.  Put the amount of money it would cost to feed an extra person on the plate.  This not only acts as a sacrificial way to give above and beyond, but it is a tangible reminder three times a day of Christ's love for us in coming to this earth to die for us and our mission to love the world.  This will help us to focus on Christ at every meal during the craziness of Christmas. On Christmas Eve, take the money you and your family have collected over the 4 weeks of advent (December 2-25) and choose how you will give the money away.  Below are some different options for you to choose from if you need some suggestions.

Tell us what you did!

Let us know what Empty Plate Love did for your family and the world this Christmas.  Take a picture of your empty plate at home or out to eat, then tag us on Facebook, mention us on twitter, or send us an email.  We would love to see what God is doing in and through The Fields!  Lets give a tangible expression of God's love to the world together. Check out our Advent page for more ways to focus on Christ this Christmas season!