The Greatest Gift of All
It's that time of year again when gift giving is on everyone's mind.
We make our lists and check them twice so we don't miss a single person in our life. We want to make sure no one is forgotten. We get so excited to give our gifts, anxiously awaiting the reactions of those receiving them. Then, I wonder... how was God feeling on that very first Christmas day?
Did He feel excited when He sent His son, Jesus, to be born for us, waiting to see our reaction to His love and mercy? Did He feel sad sending Jesus knowing He had to in order for us to be with Him in heaven one day? Did He wonder if we would realize how amazing His gift was and, in turn, live our life for Him?
A GIFT OF LOVE AND SACRIFICE
Unfortunately, God knew that sending Jesus to be born for us would eventually mean Jesus would have to die a horrible death for us. He knew we would reject Him and His Son. He knew we may never appreciate the fact that Jesus being born was the greatest gift we could EVER receive.
Jesus didn't come wrapped in pretty paper and tied with a fancy bow. Instead, He was born into disgraceful conditions not meant for a King. It was a place filled with smells and filth. It was a place with no honor and no glory. It was a place where we wouldn't want to spend time or even store the gifts we have bought for others. However, the greatest gift of all was indeed born into such a place.
ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER DECORATION
This year I wonder, as we are shopping for all those people on our list, can we take the time to really appreciate the amazing gift that God has given us? As we set up our nativity scenes, can they be more than another decoration we have up in our house? Can we take the time to try and understand what really happened on that first Christmas night? Can our hearts be changed and can we live a life that reflects our appreciation for the greatest gift of all?
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”