Sunday 8 December 2013

A GIFT: FOR ME?

For to us a child is born,
    to us a son is given, Isaiah 9:6

The birth of Jesus is the most significant event in world history. Do you want to know why? Because He is the greatest gift to be given to the world. He is the one and only Saviour of the whole world. Just think of it. God came to be born as a human being. God in our skin, breathing our air, walking on this earth as a Person. This Scripture reading here and many others will explain to you the significance of His birth. I don't know what you want this Christmas. If you just want to spend time with your family...whether you are doing some charity event for the homeless.. or even if you live alone. Don't forget this Christmas the reason for the season.  






10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12


In the culture in which we live it is easy to become consumed with the material aspect of Christmas portrayed by the media. But giving and receiving presents has no joy and no meaning if you forget why you are doing it. The clue is in the name CHRIST-mas. Christmas is completely about Christ and receiving His loving gift of salvation. Will you accept Christ into your hearts this Christmas? Will you accept Him into Your homes this Christmas? Is He welcome round your table? Is He invited to spend Christmas with You? Can He sit round Your table and share a meal with you as you celebrate His birthday? 

God's gift to you is the gift of His Son. John 3:16 explains this point explicitly. 

 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

As a Christian, at times I have to be careful not to focus on the material, but allow God to give me a fresh understanding of what He has given us in Christ. God loves us so much and He is an extravagant Giver. In fact, He calls us to be cheerful givers. A more appropriate term would be hilarious givers. Jesus also said, that it is more blessed to give than to receive. So when you give this Christmas, it is also important to give out of a heart of grace. Another thing which deserves recognition is that God doesn't give reluctantly or out of duty or obligation and neither should we. So give without expecting to have anything in return. This Christmas, set your mind to be:- 

  • always thankful for the people God has placed in your life- this will stop you from depreciating them or taking them for granted
  • grateful for all the things God has given- this will combat against an ungrateful spirit or discontentment
  • mindful of those who lack- there are many people in poverty today, who do not have the basic things which we daily take for granted. Like food, water, a bathroom, a warm bed, family.. You get the picture. Keep them in your prayers this Christmas. For "The prayers of a righteous person are powerful and effective."- James 5:16
And most importantly thank God for Jesus! Who was born of the virgin Mary, died for our sins and rose again and will be coming back again to claim His own. Make sure that you are in Christ.


All my love, 
Rachel, your sister in Christ. x


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