By Not Known
Gifts are a regular part of our Christmas tradition. Every Christmas, we try to look for the perfect gift and often, we also like to receive good gifts. Children give parents their wish list in order to get the gifts they dreamed of. Adults also have their wish list although most are too shy to share them. I have a friend who always gives us his wish list. He said, “Just in case you decide to give me a present.” Apparently, he just wanted to receive a gift that he really likes.
Gifts come in different sizes and prices. Anyone can join in the Christmas tradition of gift giving. Given with a right attitude, gift means “I remember you and I love you.” As much as I enjoy shopping for my family, the best part is watching the recipients squeal with delight when they open their gifts.
Trying to find the perfect gift is one thing but have you experienced giving a gift without realizing its significance? Matthew 26 tells the story about Mary who brought an alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it on Jesus. The Gospel writer, Mark said that the price of Mary’s gift was approximately 300 denarii, at least ten times a person’s annual wage during that time. Mary did not care about the price of her gift. She just wanted to show her love for Jesus and of all the gifts that Jesus received, Mary’s gift touched His heart so deeply that He memorialized it forever. The best part was when Jesus transformed Mary’s gift into something far more precious and significant. It became a preparation ointment for Jesus’ burial.
Can you remember the most precious gift that you have been given? I received mine when I was seven years old. After watching endless movies about how children got their wish list by hanging up their stockings on Christmas eve, I decided to do the same. I looked for the biggest stocking and hung it on my window. To my delight, my stocking was filled with goodies the following morning. I thought that was the best gift ever but that was back then. If you give me a stocking filled with goodies now, I will still love it but I probably will not jump with joy.
No one can give us a perfect gift but God can and He has already prepared it. For unto us a Child is born, to us a Son is given and He will be our Wonderful Counsellor, our Mighty God, our everlasting Father, and our Prince of Peace. God loved us so much that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. What a wonderful gift but do you have it? This Christmas, may you respond positively to the gift that has been given to you. “Come to my heart, Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for you.”
Agnes Tan