Gifts that Keep on giving
“May you receive more and more of God’s mercy, peace and love.” Jude 2
“Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God.” Hebrews 12:15a
Mercy: compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm, an event to be grateful for, especially because its occurrence prevents something unpleasant or provides relief from suffering
Love: intense, deep devotion
Peace: freedom from disturbance (Webster’s definition)
Peace: God’s supernatural soothing of our souls (My definition)
My Abba,
As I try to navigate the gift-giving traditions of the season, I find myself thinking more about the gifts you give. I know I don’t receive every good gift you offer. But I want to receive “more and more.” With a quick glance, I found so many truths depicting you as the ultimate gift Giver. What indescribable gifts you give!
For me, some of the ones that stand out are:
Your Son, your Holy Spirit, eternal life, mercy, peace, love, grace, forgiveness, righteousness, kindness, instruction, spiritual gifts, life-giving words and one gracious blessing after another.
I love that your children can help each other receive the grace gifts you have for us. This truth brings to mind our enthusiastic 9-year-old grandson each Christmas.
He searches tenaciously for our gifts under the tree, rejoices when he discovers them, and brings our gifts to us. If he is allowed, our elf helps unwrap them and usually proclaims something positive about the gift to the recipient.
As we “look after each other,” I want to help my brothers and sisters in Christ discover your grace gifts. Please allow me to join in “unwrapping” those gifts with them. Show me how to encourage others to enjoy the priceless gifts you give.
During this Christmas season, and always, help me celebrate you, my infinitely extravagant Giver of life.
I love you,
Mollie
My child,
Life for you can overflow with gifts so much more satisfying than the Norman Rockwell fantasy of the ultimate Christmas you sometimes long for.
A fire blazing in the fireplace as fresh snow frosts the landscape. Joyous Christmas carols warming hearts as your family celebrates the Savior’s birth. Lights twinkling on every eave and thoughtful gifts skirting a majestic tree. A delicious meal enjoyed by family while unconditional love is continually extended to everyone present.
All those things are beautiful. But even if you actually could realize your Christmas fantasy, you would eventually have to return to reality. I have so many gifts for you that won’t leave you feeling like a droopy, post-holiday poinsettia, when you are left with a cold ash-filled fireplace, dirty dishes, and scraps of discarded wrapping paper.
I am a perfect gift-Giver every day. My endless gifts never need new batteries, break, or lose their luster when compared to the next great thing the marketers use to create a sense of lack.
Each day I can assure you, there is more where that came from. More and more gifts from me, for you to receive and relish. An endless supply of perfect, imperishable gifts, every day for all eternity.
I love you,
Abba
photo: melpomen