Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! – 2 Corinthians 9:15
It had been a hard year, and I found myself sharing my heart with a trusted friend. “I don’t think we’re going to be able to do much for Christmas this year,” I said sadly.
“You mean Christmas presents or Christmas itself? Because Christmas isn’t about presents,” she replied. Her reply stung because it was so true. I had lost sight of what really mattered.
Growing up, I was the child of a single mother who could afford few frills. But then she started dating a man who couldn’t bear to see the scarcity of presents under our tree, so he hauled in a 50-gallon yard bag full of wrapped presents. I remember being amazed because I got everything I had asked for, but for the life of me, I don’t recall one gift.
In fact, I recall few presents I’ve received over my lifetime of Christmases. As much care as I’ve taken to give meaningful gifts, I recall few that I’ve given. What has meant the most to me over the years is our traditions that honor Him who gave the ultimate gift: Jesus, who, in humble servitude, left behind the glory of heaven to give fully of Himself so that we might have eternal life.
No earthly gift can compare. Beautiful jewelry or clothing will go out of style or require repair. Gift cards will be used and discarded. All extravagances will be spent and become things of the past. They will all become memories, some of which may be cherished but many forgotten.
But Jesus has given us an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you (1 Peter 1:4). It will never become outdated, outmoded or be outdone. It is a gift so wonderful that it has dictated and altered all history.
We cannot buy it. We cannot earn it. We cannot lose it. We cannot even comprehend it. But we can celebrate it. We can share it.
This is the time of year when many are feeling hopeless, alone and discouraged. The holidays are a stinging reminder of how their best efforts have fallen short. But we can offer hope. We can give them Jesus.
Sharing the gift of eternal life in Christ in no way diminishes its worth. It makes all the more priceless. We do not come away poorer for it but all the richer. If you have never shared with someone the hope that is within you, all you have to do is simply share John 3:16 and a testimony of how God has transformed your life.
Don’t let what’s below your Christmas tree be the measure of your joy this season. Stop to reflect upon how incredible it is that the God of the universe would humble Himself on your behalf to take on human flesh so you could come into a relationship with Him. In the midst of all the shopping, wrapping, baking and entertaining, take time to celebrate God’s indescribable gift. And share it—generously.
You must log in to post a comment.