“Christmas is the gift from heaven of God’s Son given for free; If Christmas isn’t found in your heart, you won’t find it under the tree.”
Charlotte Carpenter
This is the time of the year when we’re hunting for the perfect Christmas gift to give to those we love. It’s the time when our desired gifts may outweigh our budget causing us tension. Here are some priceless gifts that each of us can give without breaking the bank.
This Christmas, give the gift of releasing others from your expectations of them. Instead of wanting to change them to become who you desire, give them the gift of loving them right where they’re at. When we lay down our expectations, we offer those we love the gift of freedom. This opens the door for God to have the space to heal their hearts, to release them from their false selves so they become who God created them to be. The sooner we let go of the expectations we have for someone; the sooner we will have the relationship we desire.
Along this same line, give the gift of acceptance this season. Where there’s been judgment or criticalness in your heart toward someone, replace it with acceptance. Matthew 7:1-2 warns us not to be judgmental. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Romans 2:1 also informs us that we will be condemned at whatever point we judge someone.
Other priceless gifts we can bestow upon others this season are forgiveness, mercy, grace, and kindness. Instead of holding a grudge or resentment toward a family member who may give a cutting remark, turn the other cheek. Instead of reacting, pause and respond to them as Jesus would. Affirm and build them up with your words.
Give those who are lonely the gift of your presence and listening ear. We desperately need those who take the time to listen to our stories and intentionally ask us questions, showing interest in our lives. We need to give and receive the gift of attachment: being seen, soothed, safe, and secure.
By giving gifts that money can’t buy, we are giving our loved ones Jesus. For Jesus accepts us as we are and gives us His grace, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness. He listens to us and gives us the gifts of His presence and attunement. When you give these gifts at Christmas, remember God’s priceless gift of Jesus. “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift” (2 Corinthians 9:15)!
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
Sir Winston Churchill
Relevant Reflection:
Which of these priceless gifts will you give to someone this Christmas?
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