By Marlene Depler
“What do you want for Christmas?”
As Christmas approaches each year, this is a common question in our family. Sometimes we have great ideas of what other family members would enjoy, but when we don’t know, we simply ask each other. We want the recipients of our gifts to find delight in what we wrap and place under the tree.
It occurred to me the other day that perhaps I should also ask Jesus what he wants for Christmas. After all, it’s his birthday celebration! So I began to ponder the question, “What would the Messiah want as a gift from me this Christmas?”
The only recorded gifts given to Jesus in the Bible were brought by the Magi. Matthew 2: 11, says, Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts and gold and of incense and of myrrh. I seriously doubt that he wants me the same gifts from me as the wise men of old. So what kind of gifts does the King of Kings wish for this year? It seems the gifts he most desires cannot be wrapped and placed under my Christmas tree.
Companionship: Jesus desires my companionship, which is sustained by time in His presence for honest communication.
Compassionate heart: Jesus desires a compassionate heart that will propel me to reach out in my words and actions to those around me in His name.
Commitment: Jesus desires my commitment to the process of rebirth and renewal—and to the long walk of faith.
Courage: Jesus desires for me to have the courage to obey—to take risks when necessary—and to stand for what is true.
Confidence: Jesus desires for me to have a quiet confidence in Him, knowing that he will keep his promises—and that he will continually be my strength and my refuge.
Calm spirit: Jesus desires for my spirit to be calm—for me to give up my hurried pace and rest in Him.
Contentment: Jesus desires for me to be content with who He has made me to be—where I currently am—what I have.
To my amazement, I realize that it is I who am truly blessed as I begin to offer my gifts to the Christ-child.
(c) 2007 Marlene Depler (To reprint in any form permission must be granted my author)
1 comment:
These are wise and thoughtful words Marlene.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year with your family, and that January is bringing you some delightfully relaxing days in the warmth and comfort of your home!
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