How To Serve Others During The Holidays

The holidays can be a whirlwind of activity—family gatherings, church functions, work parties, and endless shopping. Amid the hustle and bustle, it's easy to lose focus on what really matters: letting God's light shine through us by serving others. Whether it’s within our families or reaching out to those in our community, we’re called to show Christ's love in practical ways. After all, Jesus commands us to love one another:

Here are practical ideas for how to serve others this holiday season and make this time of year a blessing to everyone around you.

Invite Friends & Family To Church Events

Many people who don’t attend church regularly are more open to invitations during the holiday season. Invite a friend or family member to a Christmas Eve service, a nativity play, or a holiday Bible study. Even if they decline, your kind gesture and prayers for them can plant a seed. Just remember to invite with love and avoid pressuring them—let God work in their hearts.

Share A Meal With Someone In Need

Do you know someone struggling with loneliness, job loss, or financial hardship? Invite them to join you for lunch, brunch, or dinner after church. Serving others doesn’t always have to be extravagant. A simple shared meal and a listening ear can make a world of difference. Engage them in meaningful conversation, ask how they’re doing, and offer to pray with them before you part ways.

Spread Joy Through Christmas Carols

Few things bring holiday cheer like the sound of Christmas carols. Gather a group of friends or church members and visit a nursing home, hospital, or even a local shopping center to sing carols. It’s a fun and meaningful way to serve others by spreading the joy of Christ’s birth through music.

Visiting Elderly

The holiday season can be especially lonely for the elderly, particularly those in nursing homes or who are homebound. Visiting them is a wonderful way to brighten their day. Bring along some homemade Christmas cookies or read a favorite Bible passage with them. A simple conversation can remind them that they are loved and valued.

Volunteer At A Soup Kitchen  

One of the most impactful ways to serve others is by feeding those who are hungry. Soup kitchens often rely on volunteers to serve meals to individuals and families in need. This is a great opportunity to teach kids about compassion and gratitude while showing Christ’s love to those who might feel forgotten during the holidays.

Be Helpful At Gatherings

When attending holiday gatherings, look for ways to lighten the load of your host. Offer to help in the kitchen, serve food, or clean up afterward. Sometimes, small acts of kindness like taking out the trash or loading the dishwasher can go a long way in serving others and showing appreciation for their hospitality.

How To Serve Others With Homemade Treats

Baking is a holiday tradition in many households, so why not use it as an opportunity to serve others? Make extra batches of cookies, fudge, or other treats and deliver them to neighbors, first responders, or even teachers. It’s a simple, heartfelt way to express gratitude and spread joy.

Volunteer With Meals On Wheels

Did you know that millions of seniors rely on Meals on Wheels, and tens of thousands more are on waiting lists? (Source: Meals On Wheels America) That’s a pretty staggering statistic and just shows how vital this service is. You can help by packing meals, delivering them, or offering to drive routes. This small act of service ensures that elderly individuals not only receive nourishing food but also a friendly face and a reminder that they are loved. Want to volunteer for Meals On Wheels? Learn more here https://bit.ly/3NpMUJ8

Send Care Packages To Troops

Our military personnel sacrifice so much, especially during the holidays when they’re away from their families. Sending a care package with snacks, handwritten notes, and other thoughtful items can remind them they are not forgotten. Organizations like Operation Gratitude can guide you on how to serve others in this way.