by David Dewitt

Created on: October 15, 2008

One of the many Christmas traditions that seems to be almost universal is the giving and the receiving of gifts. There are a number of reasons this tradition is observed. There are two come to mind that are especially meaningful.

The first reason we give gifts is to remember that the Wise Men or Magi brought gifts to honor the baby Jesus. These men brought three different gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

The second reason that we give gifts has to do with Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas was an actual person who gave gifts to needy children on Christmas Eve. He is the inspiration for Santa Claus.

I want to look at a couple of verses from the Bible to help us to see gift giving and receiving in a different light.

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12

John speaks of those who received Christ. The Greek meaning of the word "receive" means "to welcome" or "to accept." John is making it clear that we are to welcome Christ into our lives. This receiving is not just for part or some of our life but rather it is for every area of our life.

Christ must also be believed. To believe in the name of Jesus means to put faith in Him as a person and in what he represents. The simple act is life changing and transforming because we become children of God.

God has given us an incredible gift. By faith, in Christ, we can become children of God. When we accept Christ we are ushered into God's family. John says that through Christ we are given the right to become children of God. Literally we are given permission to join God's family. By faith in Christ, we become a part of eternity. Our citizenship is changed and we gain an interest in heaven. Our position in life is changed. We gain a dwelling place in heaven and divine grace from God the Father.

One of the greatest joys of Christmas is found in giving. It is indeed better to give than to receive. I don't always enjoy the shopping or the wrapping of gifts but I love to give the gifts. The same may be true for you. You love to watch others tear through the wrapping. You love to watch their face light up. You love to hear the words "It's just what I wanted!"

It might surprise you but this applies to Christ as well. There is great joy when you give a gift to Christ. What does Christ want from you?

My child, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my ways. Proverbs 23:26

The greatest gift you can give to Christ is yourself. Have you received the gift of Christ and have you given Him your heart?

This year the wonder of Christmas can come alive for you in brand new ways if you will open your heart and allow God to prepare you for Christmas.

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