During the Christmas season, we emphasize giving and receiving gifts. Practical gifts are useful and serve a specific purpose. Edible gifts can satisfy cravings from sweet to savory. There are fun gifts that are a nod to a hobby or other leisurely interest. Some of my favorite gifts to both give and receive have a sentimental quality.

I appreciate gifts that make me think of the person who gave the gift. When I give gifts to others, I enjoy giving something that has meaning for the recipient. Perhaps it reflects a memory we shared together or includes something that we can do together. I started a tradition about twelve years ago with my nieces and nephews. Every year, I give each of them a custom-made dinner plate. The plate reflects their interests for the year. Sometimes I also include pictures of us together.

As meaningful as these gifts are, they will not last. They will become worn and break. We will eventually forget about them and have no more use for them. God desires to be our greatest treasure (Matthew 6:19 – 21). The most precious gift that we have ever received came in the form of our Savior.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1:17

Salvation that Jesus brings is the only gift that lasts forever. I am sure you know this! Many of us are believers, after all. Perhaps you are not a believer. Maybe you have not received Jesus’ gift. God’s Word says that we simply need to believe and we will receive this gift.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
John 3:16

We are all called to share this gift with others. Maybe there is a specific person with whom God wants you to share the gift of the Good News. As we are giving and receiving gifts this Christmas, may we be ever mindful of our greatest gift.

Love in Christ,

Adam