The Gift that Keeps on Giving

We are in the season of giving, and we are in this season to celebrate the greatest gift we’ve ever been given: Jesus, and through Him, salvation and freedom.

Just like with any other gift, it came at a cost to the giver, but free to us, as long as we accept it. However, the difference between this, God's perfect gift to us, and gifts we give ourselves is this: we could never afford this. Yet, He gave it to us freely even though we disobeyed Him, disgraced Him, spat on Him, and disregarded him. "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8b)

The best part is the fact that it is a gift that keeps on giving. Unlike the toys, gadgets, clothes, shoes, accessories, etc. we receive, this gift doesn't spoil or expire, we don't grow out of it, we never stop needing it, and it never stops being available to us. Because of that one sacrifice, Jesus giving up his life on the cross for us, we have access to everlasting grace, mercy, forgiveness, love, and a close relationship with our Heavenly Father.

One thing I love about God is that He always goes the extra mile. He didn't just stop at this abstract story of some guy that died on a cross tens or hundreds of thousands of years ago, that people claim is the key to salvation. No, He went a step further to give us His Holy Spirit. We've talked about the Holy Spirit before, He's our advocate, our comforter, our teacher, our reminder; He is God in us, so we don't have to go looking for a temple when we want to speak with God, or looking for a lamb to sacrifice whenever we want to ask for forgiveness. He even intercedes for us as well!

Jesus’ sacrifice is the gift that keeps on giving. Salvation is the gift that keeps on giving. The Holy Spirit is the gift that keeps on giving, all from our heavenly father. As James 1:17 says,

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

So, in the midst of all the fun, food, gifts, and carrols, remember the real reason for the season, the gift we are celebrating, and remember to thank God for it. I wish you a very Merry Christmas! Peace and love of Christ be with you all!