In our service today, our pastor talked about the Christmas season. And it got my wheels spinning, so naturally I decided to write (or type) it out.
We have always been told that Christmas is a time to give. And while a good portion of us do that, it is usually not the sole thing we are doing. While we are out shopping, we are looking at all the things we want to have. Then with social media, we scroll and see what everyone is getting for Christmas, and the envy or jealousy arises. I'm not calling any certain person out, I'm speaking to all of us.
A lot of us are doing things to give during the Christmas season. Churches are gathering Christmas Child shoe boxes, schools are doing angel trees, Christmas carols are being sung at senior citizen homes. And all of these are good, no, great! But can we give more? Can we give differently?
Over the last 6 months, I have been having a constant reminder that what we have in our daily life is such a gift. Our family, house, friends, church, health, all of it is such a gift. And we seem to simply forget how much God has given us.
When was the last time you truly thanked God for being where you are right now?
When was the last time you truly thanked God for having good (not perfect) health?
When was the last time you truly thanked God that you have the ability to share the message of Jesus?
Isn't that the best gift we can give everyone?! What item can you buy that is greater than the gift of our Savior? What gift is more spectacular, amazing, or impressive than a relationship with Jesus? And why only think of giving during this season?
Have I offended you yet? I kind of hope so because if I have, then your wheels are spinning too 😉
So here is my challenge to you -
1. Stop and truly thank God for everything you have. Don't be concerned with what you want, because it can all be gone tomorrow.
2. Reach out to those around you and see what you can give them. It may simply be a meal, or a hug, or a prayer. But it may also be the most important gift of their lives.
I hope you are having a giving season - and if you are a person needing the love of Jesus - reach out to me. I would love to share everything I know (but trust me, I don't know it all)
Have a Merry Christmas everyone ❤