At this joyous and holy time of year, the author reminds us of what the Lord grants to us
The sacred Gift we celebrate at Christmas is God’s love embodied in His selfless sacrifice — and when we love like He does, we truly understand the gift of Christmas.
When we give a gift and expect something in return, we are cheating ourselves out of the divine experience God intends for us.
How?
When God offers our spirit life through the gift of salvation, He is offering a gift that cost Him dearly and He knows we can’t pay for it.
The Bible says, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).
When our heart welcomes Him in and accepts His gift of salvation, He gives us the ability to give like He does.
But do we do it?
It’s a struggle for sure.
Why?
Because the concept of giving and loving has been so marred by the darkness of the world.
We are nearly incapable of giving for a completely selfless reason.
For example, even the most altruistic givers, who don’t expect anything from the recipient, often give because it makes them feel better about themselves or it garners approval or praise.
I know. I’ve been there.
To understand God’s way of giving, we must understand love.