What to Give?

A Christmas Reflection

Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash

One year I was painting a ceramic nativity set when my six-year-old came and sat by my side. For a long time he watched quietly. Then he said, “You know what, if I had lived back in baby Jesus’ time, I would have traveled a long way with my cat. Then I would have given him my cat to keep him warm.” That sure touched this mommy’s heart!

And we, too, can ask ourselves, What can I give him? Christmas is when we try to find just the right gifts for our loved ones. Sometimes, though, despite all our efforts, we still may not make them happy. Thankfully, the Lord is not like a difficult-to-please relative. I’m sure he delights in every effort to bring him joy.

Sometimes believers slip into the rut of duty or obligation and love cools. When this happens, we’re probably focused on performance or problems more than on Jesus. But when we reorient our gaze, the glory of who he is will captivate our hearts again. And isn’t joy is a much better place than obligation from which to serve?

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Like the wise men at Jesus’ birth we, too, may bring him gifts with great joy. Throughout the Advent season we can ask: What would you like for Christmas, Jesus? What would delight your heart today?

• Frankincense? Bringing the aroma of Good News to my neighbor?

• My gold to help someone in need?

• The balm of myrrh—showing kindness to a stranger?

• Would you enjoy quality time as I listen instead of talk for a change? (Surely!)

• Is there a sacrifice you wish me to make for your name’s sake?

• May I bless you with the incense of gratitude and praise right now?

• Would obedience with a cheerful attitude be just the thing?

Prayer: How we love you, Jesus! You are the indescribable gift God has given us, and there is nothing we could give that would match its incalculable value. But please accept our worship now as we come and bow down, bringing small acts of devotion to honor you. Amen.

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Dear Readers, May love, joy, and gratitude fill your hearts this Christmas and always.❤️

I’ll Give Him My Heart (click on title to listen)

What can I give Him
Poor as I am
If I were a shepherd,
I would bring Him a Lamb
If I were a wise man,
I'd sure do my part
So what can I give Him
I'll give Him my heart . . .