One of the things I enjoy most about Christmas is buying gifts for others, so much so that I often forget that I also will be receiving gifts. Once home with the treasures I've chosen, there is the hiding of them that heightens the anticipation of the 25th. I find myself wanting to give immediately and yet knowing I must wait. Then I quietly and secretly find a place for the wrapping extravaganza--it's purpose, of course, is to conceal for a time with beautiful paper, ribbons, bows. I always hope my finished product has a visually appealing look that will contribute to a joyous, peaceful, and festive atmosphere. All of this builds anticipation so that we arrive on Christmas day with much expectation. Culminating weeks of looking forward, Christmas holds promise of gifts no longer concealed, but revealed. Past the outward presentation of the giver's handiwork, once opened, a gift is seen for what it is and with hope that it's enjoyment will exist far beyond the initial discovery. Depending on what the gift is there can be years of enjoyment awaiting the receiver. This is where the smile on my face comes from--hoping I've given something that will be enjoyed for a long time. And then, the realization that I also have gifts to unwrap from those who have taken time and given thought to what to give me. The joy I feel as their anticipation is expressed in sitting forward and watching intently to see the delight on my face as I work through ribbons, bows, and paper to see what they've chosen for me. I also benefit from knowing that I've blessed them when I receive their gift with a smile and thanks.
Why do we do all this on Christmas?
It all began with the greatest gift ever given--a life sacrificed for ours; it stems from a Father who sent His only Son to live among us (Emmanuel) and bring us life through His painful sacrifice. Now we can live in Him and oh, that we could see the delight on His face when we receive and unwrap with joy His gift of life and light. Matthew 7:11 "If you then who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him."
His gift is not concealed or wrapped underneath temporary or limited surface beauty. His gift is illuminated with perfect light. "Every good and perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth." James 1:17-18
May we live our lives on this earth enjoying the gift of salvation He has provided for us, and in its lifelong enjoyment may we deepen in our experience with Him--anticipating the ultimate, eternal Christmas in which we live with and worship Him forever.
Returning to our thoughts of celebrating Christmas here and now, let us frame our present with the understanding that our good Father is with us and desires us to see that as He is the one who enables us to bless each other with temporary gifts, He hopes we look up to see the forever gift He has held out for us to receive and take with our whole heart. Let us ask Him to open our eyes, minds and hearts to fully see and receive His gift of life in Jesus Christ.
May this Christmas be one beyond the wonder and delight of prettily wrapped packages and the treasures inside them. May the ultimate gift of Jesus Christ bring true life and light to you!
