Pattern for the scarf can be found in the sidebar. It’s a downloadable pdf.  There’s still time to make a scarf, deadline is February 14th.

So we sat outside the local church, under the stars, all bundled up watching Burl Ives rendition of the Christmas story. Children dressed as angels. The elders of the church as the wise men. And even a sweet baby for baby Jesus.

As I sat there listening to the story I just couldn’t get past how cold I was. How cold I was, in my store bought clothes and coat. Wishing I would have remembered to bring a winter hat. And thinking that my gloves were too thin.

Which led me to thinking about people around the world, who are cold, who have nothing. The people that we try to help, by sewing a quilt, knitting a hat or gloves or a scarf. Who can’t rummage through their closet in their house to choose which scarf looks best with what they are wearing.

This holiday season I urge you to reach out to someone less fortunate. It may be a neighbor, a friend, or a stranger on the corner. It could be at a homeless shelter, a children’s shelter, or a nursing home. Take some time out of your day to do something nice for a stranger. Knit, sew, or just listen to them. Be a friend to someone in need.

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While at the church for the Live Nativity, they were selling these Missionary Bean Soup jars. And as my hubby was waiting in line to buy it a sweet old lady came up behind him. She said ‘I made that soup and it takes a lot longer than the recipe calls for. I thought you should know.’ When we got home I pulled the jar out of the bag and read the enclosed letter.

Missionary Bean Soup :: As you make this soup, take time to pray for missionaries around the world with these thoughts in mind.

Mayocoba Beans- Pray for the missionaries in cultures that are different from their homeland.

Pinto Beans- Pray for abundance of God’s love and protection to surround them.

Baby Lima Beans- Pray for the children of missionaries (those that live on the field and those who live away from their parents).

Split Peas- Pray for the work of missionaries may grow.

Black Beans- Pray for the unnamed missionaries in countries that don’t allow the Good News to be taught. Pray that they be bold in their witness.

Red Beans- Pray for the families of missionaries who have died on the missions’ fields.

Navy Beans- Pray for chaplains in hospitals, the military, and fire/police departments. Be sure to include a prayer for the unique opportunities they have to share the gospel with others.

Black-Eyed Peas- Pray that missionaries may have eyes to see the needs around them.

Lentils- Pray for God to fill each missionary’s life with blessings.

Garbanzo Beans- Pray for money to help all missionary work around the world.

Anasazi- Pray for the elderly around the world.

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What a wonderful gift to give this holiday season! Grab a case of jars at the store and layer it with the different types of beans. And enclose this recipe, along with the prayer list:

The Best Bean Soup in Texas

Ingredients

• Jar of beans
• Your choice of meat. Suggestions: Ham bone with some meat on it, ham hock, and or bacon chopped
• 1 large onion
• 1 15 oz. canned diced tomatoes
• 1 T. lemon juice
• 1 t. garlic salt or 1 clove of minced garlic
• 3 quarts of water

Directions

Place the beans in a large pot. Cover with 3 quarts of water. Cover with the lid. Let soak overnight or at least 8 hours. After soaking, drain and replace with 3 quarts of water. Bring to a boil, uncovered. Add onion and garlic. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Add tomatoes and lemon juice. Simmer another 30 minutes. Salt and pepper to taste. Remove any bones before serving. Serves 10-12. Optional ingredients: cajun seasoning, chili powder or any spices of your choice.

And remember to heed the warning of the sweet old lady at the church, it takes longer than the recipe says. Wise advice.

Happy Holidays!