The Ultimate Gift

My husband and I hosted a great Christmas party yesterday at our home. It was great because the people seemed to be having a good time and they were happy. There were lots of laughter and just plain old Christmas cheer. It was not great because of anything we did, but it was great because it gave people an opportunity to get together and share their stories and their lives. Many people remembered loved ones who were no longer alive, many remembered past Christmases when they were children, and many just shared of themselves with those who were there.
As we approach the celebration of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, I think about the gift that God gave to us. It was truely a sharing of life in the literal and spiritual sense. Even though we are busy with all of our Christmas preparations, we should think about the reason why we are celebrating. The real reasons for celebrating are the gifts we have received in love, life, and community. God gave us his son as a gift of love, compassion, and forgiveness. Those are treasures beyond words.
The ipod or TV or socks you give to someone will wear out in time and will need to be thrown away. They are surely nice, and the gifts I receive from people are truely appreciated. However the gift that will never wear out, quit working, or become lost is the gift of God's love for us.
Enjoy your celebration of Christmas, but don't forget to thank the ultimate gift giver, God.
May you recognize God's blessings in your life and find peace during this season.

Sue


"Be still and know that I am God"(Psalm 46:10)