The perfect gift
Do not be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters! Every good gift and every perfect present comes from heaven; it comes down from God, the Creator of the heavenly lights, who does not change or cause darkness by turning. By his own will he brought us into being through the word of truth, so that we should have first place among all his creatures. James 1 : 16 - 18 (GNB) |
It is the time of year when gift giving and presents are in the forefront of the minds of many people across the country and around the world. Our television screens are filled with adverts for the latest things to want, give, eat or drink. As the big day approaches the high streets are filled with busy shoppers buying gifts for the people they care about.
However the perfect gift isn't on the high street, you can't order it online and you won't be able to buy it using your credit card or cover it in wrapping paper. The perfect gift has only a single supplier.
The perfect gift comes from God, it is the gift of life. Life lived with a purpose to its fullest potential and a life that lives on forever. Like all gifts it is given freely by God to the people he loves, no matter whether they deserve it or not.
This gift is pretty unconventional in its appearance, it is certainly not something you want stuffed under your Christmas tree. It is a gift which required a great sacrifice in order to give it to you. God gave us the gift of eternal life through his son, Jesus. His life, brutal death and return to life (resurrection) enables us to not only be in a relationship with God now, but forever. This sequence of events, this gift from God changed the course of history. This perfect gift gave us all the opportunity to be accepted by God and be part of his plan, and his kingdom forever.
As you enter the busyness of the Christmas period, take a moment to pause and think about the true gift of Christmas, the gift of life and of the little baby, Jesus. Which has given you not only a present but also a future. Have a great week.
This week's song is Peace has come by Hillsong Worship. |
Header image by: Kenny Louie via Flickr