“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”
James 1:17 ESV
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 6:23 HCSB
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.”
2 Corinthians 9:15 HCSB
Very early on Christmas morning, the children awaken and long to find their gifts under the tree. The weary parents–who have undoubtedly been up too late the night before–are hoping for a few more minutes of sleep time before the big event!
When our boys were younger, we made them wait as long it took us to gather the video camera, head downstairs before them, turn on the tree, and get in position to capture their surprised and smiling faces when they saw all that was assembled.
A young girl recently told me that she and her brother have to stay in their beds until 7:30am. They use their phones to talk and try to guess what their gifts will be until that long awaited moment finally arrives.
This excitement makes Christmas morning one of the most anticipated days of the year! It is also the one that is most prepared for and dreamed of.
What if we could have that type of excitement each day as we search for the gifts that the Lord has for us? What if we were to seek them in the pages of the Bible, in the kind words of a friend, or the smile of a stranger? What if we were as enthusiastic to share gifts with those around us to brighten an otherwise ordinary day? And how can we stay focused on the love this Christ child brought into the world as He grew up and died willingly to take away our sins and save us?
Cherish Christmas morning and take those pictures to have as treasured memories, but remember that each day is precious and comes with its own special gifts!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank You for Christmas mornings and all the joy and togetherness they bring. Thank You for Jesus, our most precious gift and Savior. Please help us to find those special gifts that come in our regular days and to share enthusiastically with others as well.
In Christ’s name, Amen.
Journal: Write some favorite Christmas morning memories here. How can you add some of this excitement into your days throughout the year?
Photo by Lynda Hinton on Unsplash