A Free Gift at Christmas

Christmas gifts

When I was a child, Christmas was mostly about toys and games. I knew the Christmas story and God was a part of our family get-together, but my excitement came from the presents and the hidden treasures inside.

Even as I grew older (beyond the childish years), Christmas was sometimes still about what I’d get. And so often, I’d be disappointed.

I think that’s because what I really needed and wanted couldn’t be bought.

Then we had our first child. Christmas was suddenly about her joy, about sharing the time with her—the three of us.

The more our family has grown, the more this is true. Christmas is about family. About spending time with our children. Seeing the delight on their faces. Sharing laughter of family stories and shared values. Enjoying a meal together.

Sharing Jesus together.

When it comes down to it, it’s not the gifts and gadgets, the trinkets or toys. It’s Jesus we want at Christmas. We were made to want God in our lives. We were made to need Him.

The One who brings us peace. (A rare commodity these days.)

The One who loves us unconditionally. (Who knows better than we do how hard we are to love?)

The One who grows our faith. (He’s the Author and Finisher of our faith.)

The One who grants us joy. (Despite whatever isn’t going right.)

Jesus is what we need at Christmas. More of His presence and peace. More of His words in our lives. His voice. A deeper revelation of His love.

And He gave Himself freely so we could know Him, love Him, hear His voice, be with Him. He has made himself accessible to anyone, everyone. He is the greatest gift. 

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: 

and the government shall be upon his shoulder: 

and his name shall be called 

Wonderful, 

Counselor, 

the mighty God,

the everlasting Father,

the Prince of peace. 

(Isaiah 9:6, KJV)

Has Christmas ever left you feeling down, like you didn’t get what you really wanted? (Yet, if you were asked, you wouldn’t be able to express what you wanted—it’s too elusive, even to you.) This year, look to Jesus to fill you up. To satisfy those deep places in your heart and life. And not just at Christmas, but all year long.