THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

I really meant to post this earlier, but I was worried I wouldn't do the post justice.  (I guess A post is better than NO post).  With the Spirit of Christmas in full swing, I find myself thinking of my Grandpa (John Skorczewski), his recent passing, and how to help others this Holiday.  One of the best gifts we received was the huge turnout at my Grandpa's funeral.  And probably more meaningful was the eulogy given by Bruce Graff, the current leader of the Taking the Word of God to Haiti mission.  During the eulogy, he shared an excerpt from a high school commencement speech given by Heather Maas in May, 2007.

She starts off her speech talking of all of the things she wanted to be when she grew up (politician, lawyer, campaign manager, United States Senator, and even the President of the United States).
"Now I hate to disappoint you all, but a day came when I realized the Presidency was not my calling in life!  Calling.......that's an elusive word.  It's not a job, it's not a position, it's not just something to do.  Calling is life, it's purpose, it's meaning and definition.  When I think of calling, I think of John Skorczewski.  John is a friend of my family's and has been a missionary in Haiti for longer than I've been alive.  When I think John, I think Haiti.  When I think Haiti, I think John.  This incredible thing is, John is 82 years old and still lives in Haiti for part of the year.  Sure, some could say that John is simply a minister or a missionary- that's his job- but there's more to it than that.  He has given his life to bring the gospel to the Haitians and has committed his time and energy and resources to serving those people.  John is solely defined by God.  His entire existence, all that he does, is wrapped up in the one who call him.  That is calling."  

Our family, including my Grandpa,  had never heard this speech before.  My Grandpa did not want any special recognition for himself.  He only wanted others to know of the NEED (physically and spiritually) the Haitians had.   I'm not sure my Grandpa ever knew the true impact he had on others, but it sure was great to hear that others loved and thought of him just as his family did.

Christmas won't be the same without Grandpa here.  However, giving to others, just as Christ did, is the true meaning of Christmas.  And one thing is for sure, my Grandpa's heart was bigger than anyone else I've ever known!

Taking the Word of God to Haiti is the mission my Grandpa started to help those less fortunate in Haiti.  This year, if you haven't chosen a charity, would you please consider giving to this needy cause.  I also encourage you to check out the website at www.takingtheword.com.  

Taking the Word of God to Haiti
Bruce Graff, Missionary
61 North Liberty Road
West Alexander, PA  15376-2456
phone: 724-484-7515

Merry Christmas!