God’s Precious Gift

December 24, 2005

Bonus Reading: St. John 1

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” ~ II Corinthians 9:15

I read recently about one of the Roman emperors, who gave an unexpected and expensive present to a friend. But when the ruler’s friend saw the gift, he reportedly said, “This is too much for me to receive.” The emperor replied, “But it is not too much for me to give.”

When we think about all our sinfulness and rebellion, God’s “indescribable gift” (II Corinthians 9:15) of forgiveness through Jesus Christ seems too much for us poor sinners to receive. God is so rich in mercy, though, that it’s not too much for Him to give. Certainly in this time of joy and gift-giving, this is something worth considering. This is the “pearl of great price” that Jesus taught about - something worth everything else we have - and more.

Someone has said, “The kindest thing that God ever did was to become a man.” What magnificent and unimaginable glory Christ left behind, to put on our flesh and live at our level -only to suffer utter humiliation - for the sole purpose of offering us the riches of salvation and joys of Heaven! Until we see Him, face to face, we will never be able to understand it completely, although Scripture gives us a clue: “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” It’s tough to grasp the truth - that when we receive His gift, we claim an eternal inheritance as adopted children of God. What an honor. What a privilege. What an overwhelming and life-changing epiphany this can be. But, at the same time, once we realize how completely unmerited it is, we share the sentiment the emperor’s friend expressed. How could we receive it - except by remembering how limitless God’s love for us is - and then, seeking Him and His purpose in our lives?

Who can estimate the preciousness of God’s gift of salvation through His Son the Lord Jesus? All we can do now and throughout eternity is to fall down in adoration before our Lord, praising Him for a salvation so wondrous and so free! Oh come, let us adore Him!

In the wonder of this holy season, may we all take some quiet time before our Heavenly Father and thank Him for that very best of gifts He sent us, as we commemorate the Nativity of our Lord, tonight and tomorrow. And may God arise among us all year long - Emmanuel!

For your meditation and quiet time: Praise is the language of a heart set free.

By Grace,

Chip+

Posted by Father Chip | Filed Under Devotionals