In all this I have given you an example that by such work we must support the weak,remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, for he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”- Acts 20: 35:
As we approach the Christmas Season, our thoughts turn toward gifting to others. We give to family members, friends, co-workers and a host of other people. Sometimes we are overwhelmed by the expectations placed on us by the media and commercialization of today’s society. As Christians, we know giving during the Christmas Season is a reflection of the Wise Men’s gifts to Jesus, not as an obligation but rather an expression of love, admiration or respect. This type of giving is good! In Acts 20: 35, Paul says “remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” And while this verse is often taken out of context, we know it is always a blessing when we give without the expectation of receiving anything in return.
As I reflect on the Christmas Season, putting the commercial aspect aside, I can’t help but think with the birth of Jesus, we are the recipients of the greatest gift of all times: the gift of God’s love for us and the gift of His Son. With the birth of Christ, and through the Grace of God, we are assured the gift of eternal life spent with God. We simply need to accept the gift and continue living as Jesus would have us live.
So during the Advent Season, let’s all reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, prepare for his coming and celebrate in his birth.
John Whitcomb, Covenant Class
Speak Your Mind