TWO gifts from me this Christmas, my time and my book

With so many restaurants and businesses struggling or closed, I wanted to close this letter with a story of "You're not alone" in my neighborhood.

Before the pandemic, my local record store was not just a great place for to look for gifts for others, but one of my favorite places for community. The owner's mom, a woman in her 60's is one of the most connected people in the neighborhood. There was scarcely a moment in her store where she was not talking to people, a varied crew that included musicians, city officials, and many colorful folks. As I began building trust with her and as I brought my story and pictures of the Kingdom into our conversations about music, politics, and the vulnerable, I found her receptive.

With the pandemic, her store has been closed since March. But for her and for other local shop owners, I make it a point to continue to patronize and engage as God gives opportunity. Even if I don't know them, I might simply ask how business has been, anything to give them space to share. This gives them space to feel that they are not alone. I believe God uses these touch points to draw people to him.

But for people that I know better, like this record store lady and her family, I'll go deeper. So I texted her a greeting and I was delightfully surprised and blessed at her heartfelt replies (my text is contained in the green bubble). She continues to receive the peace I bring; I pray these little exchanges will draw her closer to the King. The godly wisdom of Luke 10 suggests persons of peace like her are the kind of neighbors I should focus on. In my book chapter, I expand this dynamic of engaging others who believe very differently.

With the peace we've received from God, you and I can be God's peace to people. Engaging with business owners is just one small way to pass the peace. The "you're not alone" picture is something my family pasted on our window. So whether home or running essential errands, this is the mantra we carry with us.

But that's just half of it. Western Christians tend to forget that the Good News is ALSO receiving peace from others, perhaps because receiving is more vulnerable. Walking home just now, a neighbor yelled out for me. She wanted to pass on some persimmon bread to my family. We've received different baked goods from different neighbors as of late. If you've read past letters, you'll know we've received much more than bread from non-Christian neighbors, especially during trials. (Who says San Francisco neighbors don't know each other!) I'm reminded of this: The Good News is also embodied in the social dynamic of reciprocity. Having lived locally in Asia, this was the way over there. But reciprocity is not just Asian, and not just for Christmas. It's part of the Good News.