There’s something about the sound of Christmas carols that makes the heart feel lighter. This past Saturday, as I stepped into Kingsmead Chapel, I was greeted by the gentle hum of “O Holy Night” drifting through the air, mingling with laughter and the rustle of wrapping paper. For a moment, I could have sworn Christmas had already arrived. 

I was there for a cracker-making day for Miracle Missions, a spirited initiative that brings people together to serve communities in need. Their work spans everything from coordinating donations to organising outreach programs, all with the aim of uplifting vulnerable groups across Zimbabwe. This particular event was focused on crafting festive crackers to be donated to orphanages around the country, small bursts of joy wrapped in shiny paper, each one a symbol of love and care.

The atmosphere was light and cheerful. Tables were laid out with ribbons, ballons, sweets, and tiny toys. Volunteers of all ages leaned in, chatting and swaying to the carols as they assembled cracker after cracker. The goal was to get to at least 3000 crackers, and it didn’t feel like too much work, but just the joy of doing something meaningful together. It reminded me how powerful simple acts of kindness can be, especially during the holiday season. As I tied the final bow on my last cracker, I thought about the children who would open them. Perhaps they’d instantly start blowing the balloons or start some type of racing with the toy cars. Maybe, just maybe, it would be the reason they smiled that day. And that’s the beauty of it all, it’s never too late to help. Never too late to be the reason someone feels seen, loved, and remembered. 

This festive season, may we all find ways to give, not just gifts, but moments of joy.