Christian Living
The Gift
We surround ourselves with the activities of life. In a frantic search of urgency and delight, we shop, searching for and acquiring the perfect gifts. But do we give adequate time in thought, word and deed for the message that Christmas brings?
It is so easy for us to get caught up in the trappings of the traditional holiday and family observances during the Christmas season. We can begin to live out the secular motivational view, the need to do and prepare for the season in ways that are, no matter how meaningful, unmindful of why we celebrate Christmas. Decorating the Christmas tree, shopping, sending cards, singing Christmas carols, and parties are all a part of the way in which we have adopted the secular observances of the holiday season. I must confess that I am susceptible to secularized and familial observances that are mutually enjoyable, but I need to be mindful that Christ is my reason to rejoice.
I have been reflecting on this holiday season and the topic of the Gift. It is obvious to us, as Christians, that Christ is the Gift to us all, from the Father, whether we accept Him as Lord and Savior or not. My thoughts have drawn me into considering more fully that we, ourselves, are the Gift, in human form. The Spirit of God resides within each of us, and we are the arms, hands and feet that can carry the message of hope that this ailing world needs to hear. It is the responsibility of the Church to follow through with Christ’s call of the Great Commission especially during the holidays when peoples’ hearts are more open to receive the gift extended to them.
A gift received and unopened is akin to a gift never having been given at all. We need to encourage each other to share the hope we have in Christ and not shy away from the responsibility we have been given. We may not feel comfortable in speaking to others about Jesus, but stepping out of our comfort zone just a little will provide greater and courage and willingness to step out.
I have found that some of my greatest successes have been over a cup of coffee or having lunch with a friend. God isn’t looking to us for a person to make a commitment to Christ—some are meant to sow and some are meant to reap; watering a crop is just as important in the process. I am happy to sow seeds and water them. I feel freer to share from my own life experience than anything else. Whether it be in poetry or in prose, I believe that writing whatever is on my heart are ways God has me share His message to the world.
Some share the Gift with others in ways where their voice is shared more quietly in an act of service—helping others in an area where their talents shine, a smile, a hug --showing love, and mercy to others in need—for God loves a cheerful giver!
God has gifted each of us differently and uniquely in His good pleasure; may we as responsible stewards of the Gospel give good gifts as He has so graciously given to us.
2/18/06
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