Image credit: By Laura Seaman (2019), Unsplash.com, CC0/PD[/caption]
A long time ago lived a women named Mary. She was given a gift from God. She carried this gift within her. She grew this gift and treasured this gift. She joyfully waited for the day that she could share this gift with the world.
Months passed and Mary waited. Soon the time came for her and her spouse, Joseph, to present this gift. Humbly, patiently, Joseph began to search for a place for Mary to bear her gift. Joseph spied a stable close by; it was not much, but it would do. Mary understood. Joseph helped his beloved off the donkey she had been riding, and he escorted her into the stable. It was time. Mary brought forth her gift. God’s love filled the room.
Mary and Joseph embraced the gift. Now they were ready to share the gift with the world. They knew that the gift was not only for them. It was a gift given by God for all mankind. The angels acknowledged the gift as they sang, “Joy to the world; the Lord has come!” The kings searched for the gift. They found the gift. This “Gift” became known around the world.
Christmas is the time of year when we all are reminded of the birth of Jesus. Jesus is the Savior of the world and the gift God gave to all.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. (John 3:16)Have you received the gift? Living in our hearts is the gift of Christ‘s love when we open our hearts to Him. Do you know Him? What will you do with your gift from God? Will you open it? Will you use it for God’s glory or keep it for yourself? A gift can never be used nor appreciated until it is first opened and you see what is inside. Open your heart to Jesus and discover His gift of love. Then pass it on. St. Teresa of Kolkata opened the gift. This gift took her to India where she served the poorest of the poor, eventually preaching the Gospel around the world. Her words spoke volumes. Her spoke actions even louder. St. John Paul II opened the gift. This gift brought unity among the Body of Christ where division once resided. Our world was never the same. He is remembered for the love of Christ he bestowed. St. Thérèse, the "Little Flower,” opened the gift. She knew that she could do nothing on her own, so she learned to depend on God for all. She is known for her Little Way. St. Paul opened the gift. Saul the persecutor became Paul the preacher. He used the gift for God‘s glory. He wrote most of the New Testament, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. His words still lives in the hearts of Christians to this day. You also are given the gift from God. You carry this gift within your heart. Grow the gift and treasure the gift. Open the gift. Then share the gift. It is the greatest gift of all, the gift of Christ love. Remember this gift is not yours alone. It is a gift given to you from God to share. What message will you give the world? What fruit will you bear? What change will you bring? You will never know until you open the gift. What are you waiting for? Dear Jesus, You are the greatest gift of all. Thank You for creating us. We are fearfully and wonderfully made. May we get to know You better each day. May we live our lives for You. May we discover our gifts and share them with our world.
Copyright 2019 Ellen Mongan
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