The Greatest Gift Ever Given

Norma Jean and I are trying to finish up our Christmas shopping. You want to give something that is really wanted, but it seems increasingly difficult to do so. Apparently, we’re not alone.

I read this morning a survey that more than half of Americans (53%) will receive a gift they don’t want. Furthermore, the survey says that unwanted presents will reach an all-time high, with an estimated $10.1 billion being spent on unwanted gifts.

The recipient’s response, “Ah, you shouldn’t have done that!” might actually be the truth!

Topping the list of unwanted gifts are:

• Clothing and accessories (43%)
• Household items (33%)
• Cosmetics and fragrances (26%)
• Technology gifts (25%)

So, what happens to all these well-intentioned but unwanted presents?

• Regifting is the most popular solution (39%)
• Return the item to the store to exchange for something else (32%)
• Sell the unwanted gift (27%)

So the moral to the article was “when shopping this holiday season, choose wisely.”

As I read the article, I thought some of the gifts may actually be needed, just not wanted. Often, we’re looking for something fun, new, and exciting instead of the very thing that is most needed at the time. This is not only true materially, but also spiritually.

The New Testament speaks to us of God’s gift to the world–His Son, Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul Jesus as God’s “indescribable gift” (2 Cor. 9:15). God’s gift is the gift of grace, motivated by His grace as Paul pens in Ephesians 2:8-10.

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

God’s “indescribable gift” of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our sins is the ultimate gift. It is love beyond comprehension. Grace that transcends human logic. And mercy that is holy, heavenly, and generous above our capacity to fully understand. Through Jesus Christ, God is the giver of every good gift. Every perfect gift. Every spiritual gift. (Jas 1:17; Eph. 1:3).

Consider that God’s Gift of Jesus is a…

#1 Gift of pardon from our sins.

While many may not realize it, all have sinned and stand condemned without Jesus. But God offers the gift of pardon, redemption, and reconciliation through Jesus’ vicarious death on the cross (Eph. 1:7).

#2 Gift of Peace.

Peace is one of humankind’s elusive goals. People seek peace with others. Peace within their own hearts. Peace with God. Through Jesus, we can enjoy the gift of Divine peace (Phil. 4:7)

#3 Gift of Power.

God gives power. Not physical or material power. But spiritual power. Since the gospel is “the power of God unto salvation” (Rom 1:16), we can expect to be strengthened spiritually through His power (Col. 1:11). We are guarded by His power, and through it we can overcome infirmities. Minister our God given gifts. And defeat the devil ( 1 Pet 1:5;2 Cor 12:9; Eph 3:7).

#4 Gift of Purpose.

The book of Ephesians points out that God had an “eternal purpose” for us before the beginning of time. Our purpose transcends our profession. Our hobbies. And our material goals. It knows no bounds restricted by race, ethnicity, or nationality. In Christ, we have a reason for living. Spiritual objectives. Godly ambitions. And eternal aspirations

#5 Gift of Paradise.

We can be with Jesus in paradise–the heavenly home of the soul. However, to receive the gift of paradise, we must accept His pardon. Enjoy His peace. Appropriate His power. And live by his purpose.

God’s gift is personal and priceless. It will do more than improve your life; it will transform it. It will give you more than happiness; it will provide inner joy. It will never wear out, break, or become obsolete. It will grow sweeter with time. Never be forgotten. And ultimately will come to define who you are.

The gift you really need this year may not be the gift you know you need or even want. But it’s a gift of Divine proportions. An eternal gift that keeps on giving.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman