The Christmas Debate
“For God so loved the world that he gave…” (John 3:16).
“Should I or shouldn’t I?” I found a piece of clothing on sale that I knew a dear friend would like for Christmas. It was still over my budget. I mulled over the decision for a few minutes and ultimately decided to spend a little more to buy something I knew she wanted and that would make her smile.
While many people are opting against presents at Christmas, I am still buying gifts for friends and family. I see them as tokens of my love, an opportunity once a year to express thankfulness for them through a material gift. Yes, the bank account is lean in December, but it is also a time to deny myself and spend whatever extra I have on others.
Christmas giving = love for me.
When God gave the ultimate gift to us, his Son, Jesus, it would be disheartening if there had been a debate recorded in the Bible.
God: “Should I send my Son to Earth?’
Angel: “No, the cost is too much.”
God: “Then my people can’t spend eternity with me.”
Angel: “Yes, but do you really want to watch your Son die?”
God: “No, you’re right. That would be heart-wrenching. Maybe it’s not a good idea.”
Angel: “Now you’re seeing my side. We have a nice life up here. Why do we need to give such a gift to humans?”
God: “But I created them. I love my people and they need direction.”
Angel: “Yes, but do they really care about you?”
God: “They don’t understand me. My Son will show them how I feel about them. They don’t have peace. My Son can provide that. They need counsel. Jesus will teach them.”
Angel: “But you know your Son will be the object of ridicule. Many will not love him like you do.”
God: The consequences are great, but the gift is worth it. It’s the right thing to do.”
Angel: “Okay, you are God. The question is, ‘Will humans understand the cost of this sacrificial gift?”
God: “Most will not, but If only one person receives this gift, it’s worth it.”
Aren’t you grateful there was no debate? God didn’t think twice about sending the priceless gift of his Son to earth. He didn’t mull over the consequences. He didn’t waffle, because of his overflowing love for us. He also knew the end of the story. Despite the hardship on this earth, his beloved Son would rise again and provide the path for us to cross from this temporary life to eternal life in Heaven.
What a gift!
What if God decided to keep this gift to himself?
Then hope would have never been born in a manger.
Love would have never come to earth.
Peace would remain unopened.
Christmas would be just another day.
Today, let’s give a gift of thankfulness back to God for the gift of his Son.
“For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
“