Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 1:3 ESV)
The primary thing we think about when giving gifts at Christmas is material things. But consider some other things that you have to give. Consider the intangibles that cannot be measured in dollars.
How about:
- Respect
- Forgiveness
- Love
- Gratitude
- Affirmation
These are gifts that can be 100 times more meaningful than anything that can be wrapped in a box.
If you are a parent consider giving to your children the gift of:
- Time
- Attention
- A shared experience
- Words of blessing
Come home early from work. Take an extra day off. Turn off the phone. Set aside the chores for an evening. Allow yourself undistracted time with your kids.
When your kids are older they will not care about the toys you gave them. But they will remember the gift of your presence.
Keep in mind that God’s answer to the world’s problem was never material stuff. Instead, he gave us the gift of his presence. He is Immanuel – God with us.
Reflection
- Is there anything particular in the lists above that resonated with you?
- Take the a moment to give one of these gifts right now.
Prayer
Lord, you gave us the amazing gift of your presence. You have blessed us in so many ways. You have given us the gift of your love, the gift of salvation, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. All these gifts are more valuable all the money in the world. Thank you for your lavish generosity. In Jesus name. Amen.
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