Living the gift

Contentment, joy, and peace cannot be bought, made, or just believed in to be experienced. As I think about the coming celebration of our Savior’s birth, these most precious things become more real. And yet, I believe the world has a false sense of their source.

We probably will spend more than we intended in giving gifts we hope will bring pleasure and delight to family and friends. I have no doubt our Creator intended for us to experience joy in loving others. And yet, I think we too have a false sense of how to do that.

There’s nothing wrong with giving gifts. I love choosing things that I know will be enjoyed. Unfortunately, we sometimes fail to see those things that cannot be bought, made, or believed in. The warmth of an embrace, tender words of love and caring, laying aside some preconceived ideas to understand the struggles of others cannot be wrapped up in bright paper and shiny ribbon.

The truth is, actions like these are the way we can convey our own gratitude for the birth of Jesus.

Yes, He came to redeem us, but to keep that gift to ourselves may be the most selfish thing we can ever do. I’m not talking about involvement in some ministry or church project. I’m talking about touching others in all kinds of ways that express Jesus’ love.

God gave us a priceless gift, but if we do not express that same kind of unselfish and sacrificial love to others, we really are the ones who lose. For it is in giving in this kind of way that we live our faith. It’s one thing to say you love God but it’s quite another to love others.

If you sincerely want to experience the joy of Christmas, live the gift throughout the year.
“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WILL ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The Second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’” Matthew 22:36-39, NAS

Christmas Blessings, Francine

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