For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, ….

Isaiah 9:6

God loved the world so much that he gave us the greatest gift of all; his one and only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, so that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. God’s gift was not wrapped in glittering paper, but rather in swaddling cloths and laid in a manger. God’s gift was never meant to be torn open, ignored, returned or rejected, but to be held close, nurtured and cherished, and loved for all eternity.

Best of all, God’s gift is free; free to anyone who will receive his Son; no exchanges, no white elephants; no naughty or nice list, no hustle, none of that stuff. Just Jesus loving you; and inviting you to love him back. Through Christmas, he reminds us once again, that he is Immanuel, God with us. Yes, the very Messiah that Isaiah prophesied about (Isaiah 9: 6-7).

Amidst the bustle of the Christmas season, may Jesus find room in your heart, your home and at your table once again.

Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus as a gift to humankind. I receive this wonderful gift wholly and willingly. There is room in my heart for him., this Christmas and for all eternity. Amen.