Dear friends,
I recently had the privilege of accompanying my eight year old grand-daughter to the “Nutcracker” put on by Ballet Kelowna. She was mesmerized, and I am not sure which I enjoyed more; watching an amazing production, or watching her in her fascination and pleasure. But as I thought back on that evening, another thought struck me. I am so blessed! Here I am enjoying an incredible night out with someone dear to me. I have a loving family; a warm bed every night; food on the table; I live in a great city and an even greater country that gives me opportunities like no other place on earth. And I am in the privileged and enviable position to be able to share that good fortune with others.
One of my all time favorite stories, especially at Christmas, is “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. It is a story of redemption as old Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas through the visitation of the three ghosts. But there is one line that always stands out to me. It is when the two gentlemen come to Scrooge’s office appealing for funds for the needy. They say, “A few of us are endeavoring to raise a fund to buy the Poor some meat and drink, and means of warmth. We choose this time, because it is a time, of all others, when Want is keenly felt, and Abundance rejoices.” A time, of all others, when Want is keenly felt, and Abundance rejoices.
As our friends and supporters, you have shared from your abundance to help those who keenly feel want. On behalf of the staff and board of directors of Kelowna’s Gospel Mission, I thank you for your generous support. Through your gifts you have enabled us to make this time of year brighter for so many in our community.
May God richly bless you.
Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.
Randy Benson