Read Matthew 5:14-16  

Trevor’s story

Trevor Ferrell was 11 years old when he was watching a documentary with his parents about homeless people on the streets of Philadelphia. It was December 1983, and the young boy couldn’t believe people lived like this on the bitterly cold winter streets.

Trevor’s mum and dad agreed to drive him into the city and then watched him hand a blanket to a destitute man huddling on a grate in the footpath.

Visiting the homeless soon became a regular part of the Ferrell family’s lives as they regularly travelled into the city to distribute blankets, clothes, and scores of peanut butter sandwiches. Other people learned of their actions and “Trevor’s Campaign” was born with volunteers organizing food distribution routes around the city. In time, a van was donated to assist with the food handouts.

This ultimately led to the establishment of “Trevor’s Place”, a rundown boarding house that provided a roof over the heads of those previously on the streets.

When asked if he thought they were making any difference in the lives of the homeless, Trevor’s dad, Frank said, “Sometimes it seems like just a band-aid. But this is how we build relationships. These people become our friends, and they trust us to help them in bigger ways. I know one thing: giving has made all the difference in my Christian life. I used to just read the Scriptures. Now I feel like I’m living them.”

Jesus came to shine His light into the darkness, and when we as His followers also shine His light to others, we help push back the darkness and point people to Jesus.

“Let your light shine before people that they may glorify your Father who is in heaven…”

Think of a practical way you can show someone the light of Jesus this Christmas.