“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary His mother, and they fell down and worshipped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered Him gifts, gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:10-11

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.” – John 3:16, 17

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23

“Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift!” – 2 Corinthians 9:15

The Christmas story is a story of gift giving. When we think of parties we often think of gift giving and it is certainly a big part of our Christmas tradition. Some see that as an unwanted distraction to the true meaning of the season, but I would challenge us to see it as a vital part of our celebration of our God who is a “generous” Father! God coming to Bethlehem on that first Christmas was an act of loving generosity. It was the ultimate “gift”.

Think about it. God didn’t go to the mall and buy something He thought we would like. When God wanted to show His love toward us He gave of Himself…He revealed Himself to us and gave us what we needed to be reconciled to Him and have eternal life! What? Yes, wrapped up in swaddling cloths and laying in a manger was God giving us what we needed and more. Eternal life WITH HIM! The Scriptures tell us that this was not even on our list (Romans 5:8)!

The Christmas story should fill us with thanksgiving and an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Thanks be to God for such a wonderful gift! This attitude of gratitude naturally produces generosity toward others. In other words, because God has been so gracious to us, we are compelled to be gracious to others. Therefore, it is not only appropriate at Christmas to give gifts…it is a natural result of the blessing that God lavished upon us that first Christmas and everyday since the day we personally received His generous mercy and grace.

Thank you God for the gift of your Son, Jesus and for making a way when there was no way!