Focusing on the Gift
As we embrace the festive Christmas season, our thoughts naturally turn to the timeless story of Jesus' birth, the tradition of giving and receiving gifts, and the overall spirit of generosity. Yet amidst all the merriment, it is important to pause and ponder a deeper lesson that extends beyond the holiday itself--one that teaches us about the true meaning of gifts and their significance throughout the year.
Before I go any further, I want to share a cherished memory from my childhood. On one particular Christmas, my sister and I yearned for a special gift—a lifelike doll named Lorrie, accompanied by a complete nursery of miniature furniture. This precious doll was in every catalog and every commercial. For months, my sister and I begged and prayed that "Santa" would bring us a Lorrie doll for Christmas. Our parents, with hearts brimming with love, granted our wish. Little did we know that the joy we experienced on Christmas morning was crafted by their labor of love the night before, meticulously assembling all the doll's furniture. (Sorry, Mom and Dad, but thank you!)
This treasured recollection beautifully introduces the latter part of Luke 12:48: "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more." In the context of that Christmas, our parents were given the gift of fulfilling our greatest wish, but with that gift came the requirement of painstakingly assembling every piece of that tiny furniture.
As we approach the busy Christmas season, we must reflect on the balance between our gifts and responsibilities. The pressure of schedules and obligations can often overshadow the true meaning behind the blessings we have been given. We're so consumed with the baking that we forget to be thankful for our food. We're so overwhelmed with Christmas shopping, we fail to appreciate the many friends and family members we have. We get so tied up with the decorating (sometimes literally due to the nature of Christmas lights) that we forget the reason for the season.
This principle also applies to service and ministry. We are entrusted with gifts, talents, and opportunities, but these come with a responsibility that can sometimes feel burdensome. To navigate through this season and beyond, it's crucial to maintain a proper perspective. While acknowledging the demands that come with our tasks is necessary, it is equally important to appreciate their inherent blessings. Yes, you may have been asked to sing in the church cantata, but what a blessing you can sing. You may have been drafted to help with the Christmas program, but aren’t you grateful for your organizational skills? Granted, sometimes we are even "voluntold" for specific jobs, but the truth is, we're only "asked" because the person who asked realizes we're gifted in that area.
During this busy season, it can be easy to get caught up in our to-do lists and forget to appreciate the blessings around us and even those within us. Let's consciously shift our focus towards the gifts we have been given: family, friends, a warm home, and the ability to serve others. Above all, let's remember the ultimate Giver--God. As we go about our responsibilities, may we keep in mind that everything we do should bring glory to Him.
So, as we approach the holiday season and a new year, let us not forget that much has been given to us, and much is also required of us. Take a moment to pause and express gratitude for the gifts in your life, and refocus on the One who gave them to you. In doing so, you will find renewed joy in both the blessings and the duties that come with them. Wishing you a merry Christmas and a blessed New Year filled with an awareness of all the gifts you've been given.
