“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift (Jesus).” 2 Corinthians 9:15

Does it bring you joy to receive a gift? It certainly does to me. I’ve been very blessed to have been given many gifts in my lifetime—the gift of Jesus, family, grandchildren and a great grandchild, as well as friends.

I’ve also been given the opportunity to serve my fellow man, which is a gift. As I look back over the years and remember the special gifts that were given to me, there’s one in particular that remains vivid in my memory.

I was pregnant with my first child and was experiencing a very difficult pregnancy. It soon became clear that I was losing my first born. The technology 64 years ago was not what it is today, and I was told there was no hope for my baby. The doctors, family and friends began to prepare me for the loss of my child.

However, my trust and hope were not dependent on the doctors alone, but on the One who loved me and my child the most. Even when I was told that to continue the pregnancy would put my life in jeopardy as well, my faith did not waver.

While lying in bed for months waiting for my son to be born, I continued to trust in God to bring us both through this difficult time. As my little three-pound baby boy was taken from my womb by C-section, I thought about another young woman who gave birth to her firstborn son. That son was to become the greatest gift of all.

That little baby, born in a manger, grew up to be the savior that lived and died for the sins of the world. Such an awesome gift makes not only Christmas a very special day, but every other day as well.

My first born is now married, the father of two wonderful children and continues to be a special blessing to me today. While my son was a special gift to me and my family, the greater gift to all of us is Jesus.

Have you had the opportunity to receive the gift that God freely offers today? Have you received His gift of salvation, and the gift of love that can be yours? If not, this is the perfect time to do so. This has been a difficult season for many in our world, but I can honestly tell you, from experience, that His love can help you even in the most trying of times.
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Have a blessed Christmas, enjoy your family and friends, and remember that the greatest gift of all is there for you. ■