God’s Greatest Gift

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
James 1:17 (NIV)

In most places around the world, the Christmas season customarily involves the giving and receiving of gifts. This seems appropriate since the Scriptures describe God as one who loves to give gifts to His people. The Bible begins with a description of God giving the gift of life to Adam and Eve and then presenting them with a perfect garden to live in – the
ultimate handmade gift. And the Bible even ends with promises of gifts that God has in store for the future of the world.

Unlike Santa Claus, God does not operate on a wish list, although we may try to give Him one. Since God created us, He knows what will truly bring us joy. More importantly, He knows exactly what we need. Even spiritual gifts are chosen specifically for each of us by the Holy Spirit (1st Corinthians 12:4-11). When we receive a gift from God, we can be sure
that it is the perfect one for us.

God’s greatest gift, which transcends all others, is the gift of salvation. Like Christmas presents, salvation is a free gift, not something we earn by any efforts of our own (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, this precious gift required that a holy God had to be born into a sinful world and die a horrible death on our behalf. We could never do anything to deserve such a gift, but we can accept it through faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

How can we respond to such a generous and giving God? Let’s think about it. We would be hurt if a loved one put away our carefully chosen gift in a closet without opening or using it; God is also hurt when we do not respond appropriately to His lavish gifts. He wants us to use the gifts He gives. Paul wrote that God “richly provides us with everything” (1st Timothy 6:17), i.e. God freely gives and blesses us with everything that we need. God wants us to enjoy the blessings that He bestows on us. Our spiritual gifts are to be used to help and build up the body of Christ. As for the gift of Jesus, this is one present God wants us to enthusiastically share with others.

As we celebrate Christmas and commemorate the birth of our Savior, let us remember that God intends us to be joyful, thankful, and fruitful. Our Christmas celebrations should be an occasion in which we can truly rejoice in God’s goodness, be grateful for His immeasurable love, and be committed to witnessing to those around us. This is what will make our
Christmas meaningful and memorable. I hope and pray that all of you experience God’s blessings and peace this Christmas and in the New Year.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

With love and prayers,
Rev. Christopher Phil Daniel
Vicar, Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, CT