There is no question that there is a great deal of commerce, business, buying and selling, connected with the Christmas holidays. This past week-end we were among the thousands and thousands at a Cincinnati mall where business was booming. With all the gifts being accumulated and all the bright and beautiful decorations – even in our own houses – it can be easy to think that Christmas is all for those who have money.
But the gift of God’s love in Jesus Christ came to a young girl who had very little possession. In Luke we have “Mary’s Song,” the response that Mary gives when she learns that she will bear the Lord’s Son. What is Mary’s attitude? What does she say about herself in verse 48?
The source of our Christmas holiday is from the birth of the baby Jesus. This time of exchanging gifts is to remind us that God gave the greatest of all gifts. But what has become a holiday that emphasizes money actually began with an emphasis on the poor.
God was indeed mindful of the humble state of his servant. Christ came not just for the rich, not just for the powerful, not just for the influential. Jesus was a gift to all people, especially the poor and oppressed. This is made clear because Jesus was born to a poor family, an average family, a family not unlike yours and mine.
This priceless and wonderful present of love and hope and salvation was meant for all people. It was a free gift that cost nothing, yet has value beyond comprehension.
Aware of the simplicity of God’s gift, let us take on an attitude of rebellion this Advent. Let us rebel against getting caught up in excessive spending, pricey presents, and oppressive debt. Let us keep our focus on the true gift of Christmas and give priceless gifts of our time and emotions.
DAILY CHALLENGE: Can you give a gift that costs nothing but has great value? Can you give a gift of your time and attention to a loved one?
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