“for to us a child is born, to us a son is given”–Isaiah 9:6 NIV I was sitting with a friend last week talking about Christmas and other things. I shared this thought that Christmas is all about RECEIVING…and his initial look said, “dude you’re freaking crazy!” We began to talk about the biblical implications of this statement…and maybe my theology is wacky but if you look at the above passage in Isaiah he tells us that “a son is given.” When something is given you have the opportunity to receive it.
My favorite thing about Christmas is watching people open up presents I’ve bought them. Many times in the past I’ve used birthday money to buy presents (my b-day is 10 days before x-mas) for friends and family JUST BECAUSE I like giving them. I want see their expression and know I put a little joy in their life.
Think about it. When the angel came to bring news to Mary that her baby boy will save humanity from their sins…that her baby boy will literally be “God with us” what!!??!! And if you’re wondering, yes I was just listening to “Mary, did you know?” by Pentatonix. God was giving this little family the greatest gift ever in the history of histories. What was Mary’s response? “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true” (Luke 1:38 NLT)
Mary RECEIVED this gift.
I’m reminded, especially during this time of year, how amazing God’s love is. All God asks is that I lay down my selfish life, receive and follow the one who brings purpose and restores my relationship with God. I now have a responsibility, as a follower of Jesus, to live my life accordingly to this gift I’ve received. This gift is not for me to hoard but share freely and often to those around.
On December 27, my son is going to be baptized. As a dad, I couldn’t be more proud of him! He’s already received God’s great gift but now it’s time for him to give. To let everyone know that his life will be one of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. These are the makings of a follower of Jesus. And with the same eagerness, as watching someone open up a present, I’m even more excited to see what God will do through this little man as the gift of Jesus is unwrapped in his life.
Christmas is all about RECEIVING this great, generous gift from God. JESUS.











