Gift Giving Redeemed
One of the hallmarks of the Christmas season is the buying, making, giving and receiving of gifts. In recent years, the tradition of giving and receiving gifts has been much maligned. Primarily, this is because of our capitulation to a culture that has defined the practice in material terms. Gifts, culturally defined, are often those things that can be purchased, wrapped and distributed with little thought or personal involvement by the giver. Toys, computer games, clothes, jewelry, new cars, books and household items of varying kinds all fit this description.
In spite of this persistent and pervasive influence, people know intuitively when they stop to think about it, that the real treasures in life cannot be purchased and do not carry monetary value. I think of the gifts of life, good health, a sound mind, godly parents, freedom, opportunity, genuine friendships, loving spouses and children and helpful neighbors. On the spiritual side of life there are the gifts of faith, love, grace, the Word of God, church family, godly church leaders, spiritual gifts and maybe most importantly the gift of the Holy Spirit, who is “the pledge of our inheritance.” None can be purchased with money, and only a few earned with hard work and sacrifice, the remainder are constant reminders of the goodness of God in a world gone astray.
God is the original giver of gifts. Gift giving was His idea. He gives because it is His nature to give. He gives to us because He loves us. The ultimate gift, the gift of all gifts, was God giving His only Son, Jesus Christ. At Christmas time we acknowledge, celebrate and receive His gifts with gratitude and thanksgiving. In addition, we express our love for others through the giving of gifts. It is not the kind of gift, or its monetary value that is important but rather the love, thought and intention with which gifts are given and received. In our giving and receiving of gifts this Christmas, let us remember what is truly important in life and the reasons why we give and receive gifts. Doing so will bring new joy to the entire holiday season. Have a Blessed Christmas and New Year’s holiday.
Author
Pastor Bruce is the Executive Director of God's Living Stones. He lives in Omaha, NE, with his wife Barb. They have two adult children.
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