Tuesday, December 23, 2008

What gift would you give?

Every year before the Christmas season starts, I vow to not go overboard. But, with advertising and the wants of my little fella, I get wrapped up in the giving. I am happy to say that this year I didn't go too far out there and just stopped short of wrapping up long forgotten toys he hasn't played with in the last 6 months. After all, his memory is a lot sharper these days than a year ago. I am sure I would have been caught by the little fella. Oh well.. He and I were discussing Christmas the other day. He made sure that I understood that Christmas was about Jesus and it was HIS birthday. Then my wise 5 year old asked me a very profound yet seemingly simple question --"what did we get Jesus for His birthday?" I must say I paused and felt a swelling in my heart. I pushed aside the sales flyer for the local superstore and told him that was a wonderful question. We talked at length and I asked him what he thought Jesus would like to have. He said "our heart." Again, my heart swelled with pride but also awe in the fact that this little guy knows the true meaning of Christmas. If we venture back to the stable over 2000+ years ago, people had no agenda other than to worship the promised King. Christmas trees, elaborate meals, expensive and neatly wrapped gifts, and so on were not the norm for the day. Just the opposite, folks gathered with their families, fellow shepherds, kings and the like all to get a glimpse of the One who would save their and our souls. No one dressed up or had an elaborate plan or felt ill-prepared for such a visit. They came just as they were. My heart was melted and my perspective was brought back into focus for the reason we celebrate Christmas by a sweet cherub faced 5 year old. We are not called to give Ipods, sweaters, toys that the kids will long forget....As a matter of fact, we're not called to give anything at all. But, I think if we can instill the real meaning of the season to our children and those around us...material gifts won't matter as much and in turn the self-imposed stress of this season will subside. Grace and mercy are the gifts given to us by the Almighty God -- all He asks in return is our heart!

"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." (Matt 2:2)
Dear Heavenly Father -- thank You for Christmas. Thank You for gentle reminders from the wise little ones among us. I praise You for Your sacrifice and thank You for leaving Heaven to dwell as a homeless man who depended on the kindness of strangers. Your glory is still felt and I thank You for loving us all. Forgive me for the times that I lose perspective on the meaning of Christmas! In the Precious Name of Jesus - AMEN Application:
  • Take a moment and reflect on what gift you would give Jesus. Act on it and offer your gift to Him at this moment. (your heart, your time, etc)
  • While celebrating with family and friends this season, make the effort to remind others through word and/or actions what Christmas is all about.
  • Pray that the Lord will allow you and your family to experience the peace and happiness that gifts, turkey dinners and decorations can't buy.
  • I pray that each of you has the best Christmas ever - I pray that Jesus fills your heart with His love.

2 comments:

Sharon said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sharon said...

Hey girl, I agree whole heartedly. Have a very Merry Christmas my friend! Love you!