Philip Patterson has worked as a Donation Collection Driver/Supervisor in ReStore Lisburn for the last year. Philip works alongside volunteers to deliver on ReStore's impacts, building sustainable communities. Read his Advent reflection below.
“Dear friends let us love one another for love comes from God” - 1 John 4:7
There is no greater example to look at for loving people, helping people and seeing people having their lives changed than Jesus. As a Christian I am to seek to live like Jesus, and in my work and on a daily basis I am given opportunities to love, help and see people’s lives changed. What a challenge!
I have been blessed to be a part of Habitat for the past 7 months. In that time I’ve met people from all backgrounds, many of whom are struggling with various things.
Habitat is (in my eyes) not just a charity that helps people with tangible needs but a very big part of the work is to show the love of Jesus. I want to be a listening ear to the man that has just lost his wife of 50 years, to show care and compassion to the young mother struggling to furnish her home.
When I return to the store I get to work alongside faithful volunteers who give up their time to help others. Some of these volunteers also have challenging things going on in their own lives and just trying to encourage, love and help them is a blessing in itself.
If I’m to go back to what Christmas is about - it’s about Jesus! He came to see lives changed and I want to be a part of that through my work in Habitat!
Have a lovely, blessed Christmas.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your love. Thank you that you care for those in need, for those who have struggles, and you have a desire to see lives changed. I pray that coming up to Christmas and in 2025 you will continue to use Habitat for your glory. Amen.
