The Gift That Never Disappoints

I think back to Christmas when I was young and remember the excitement and anticipation of the holiday. As a young child, it wasn’t so much about the decorations or the music, even though I loved those things. It was about the hope of what might be under the tree.

I would make out my Christmas list early and hand it out to my family members. One year, it was the much sought-after Barbie doll house. Another year, it was the newest stereo. I would hand out those lists with the anticipation that just maybe one of them or all of them would show up under the tree.

Some of my gift ideas were realistic, and some of them, not so much. But as a child, I didn’t know the difference. At times, I would be overjoyed by what I received, and other times disappointed when that too-expensive gift wasn’t under the tree.

But now, as I reflect on those Christmases, I realize that those gifts eventually would break. Or they would lose their shine and be laid aside for the newest toy or item. What once brought joy lost its sparkle.

I think about the best Christmas gift that I ever received, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the gift that keeps giving. He’s the gift that never disappoints and the gift that never gets old.

Jesus Christ was the gift that changed everything. Instead of holiday paper, they wrapped him in swaddling clothes. He came not to bring a temporary joy but everlasting joy, hope, and peace.

This Christmas, let’s celebrate the true gift that keeps on giving. The one gift that never disappoints but only gets better with time. Jesus is more than we could ever ask for and far more than we deserve.

(Lord, thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus. This Christmas, remind us of the greatest gift that’s ever been given. Amen.*

Throughout the Day: Earthly gifts may fade, but the gift of Jesus only grows more precious with time. He is the one gift that truly satisfies. How can you recognize that in your life today?