Tears stream down her cheeks. Mine fill up as I am humbled by the simplicity of it all. I’ve just handed my helper a basket of “essentials” as a Christmas gift for her family. Sure, I included a small toy for each of her children, but the rest was toothpaste, shampoo, cleaning supplies, school supplies, food, and diapers. Not a tablet, phone, or any other flashy and trendy gift. Through my American eyes—nothing spectacular. Her eyes wet with gratitude. “Why?” she asks.
Wide-eyed with excitement, he receives the plate of carefully crafted cookies that are being handed to him by my smiling little baker. Taking a bite of its decorative sweetness, our neighbor asks us why we baked them for him.
Nine months pregnant, she and her husband are unable to travel home for the holidays due to the doctor’s orders. The baby is due December 23rd. They’re sad to not be with family at this special time, but excited for the soon-to-arrive gift. So, we’ve happily invited them to celebrate with us this Christmas. To rejoice and celebrate the Giver of all gifts with them. Why? Because one day long ago, another couple was preparing to be parents for the first time and was separated from their family, and God so beautifully and faithfully brought others to them—to worship and adore the Gift of all gifts, Immanuel. God saw to it that they were not alone…and so neither will our friends be.
What will you get to give this Christmas? Oh, let it be Jesus. Give them Jesus. Tell them why you sing, why you give gifts, why you decorate, why you love! Give them Christ this Christmas! Even if in the simplest of ways.
Behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11