"For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given." (Isaiah 9:6) What is it that makes us truly human? Besides our eternal soul, what has God given people that He has not given animals? The ability to reason? To laugh? To worship the Creator? To analyze one's life? To give gifts of gratitude?
This time of year is centered on gifts, those we give to each other and God's supreme gift in Jesus. I recall my father giving new plowshares to my uncle for using his tractor and plow. I've witnessed forgiveness given with tears and received gifts of thanks for things long ago forgotten.
A priceless gift is a second chance, the opportunity for a new life. This Sunday I will baptize my grand daughter and witness God's merciful gifts to her of faith and forgiveness. Abandoned in a distant land and her cries bringing rescue by a stranger, Anaya has been given a new chance in life because of God's love. God has an eternal plan for this little girl, and it includes the baptismal gifts of faith and forgiveness in Jesus Christ.
Another baby's cries were once heard in a Bethlehem stable, and they signalled the presence of the Solution to the world's true problem. His cries frightened a king and frustrated mankind's greatest enemy. Despite the message of angels, His mother and foster father did not fully understood what He would mean to this world of sin and separation.
Our life is a gift from God; what we do with life is our gift to Him. As you count your blessings this Christmas, remember the gifts of being born where you are, into the family you are, with the gifts you have, and at this time in history. We, among all people, are assuredly most blessed. What now will we do with the life He has given us?
This Christmas, consider who you are, as well as Whose you are.
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