This week my sister has a significant birthday and I was faced with the dilemma of what to get her.
(I won’t let on what I decided on, in case she reads this!)
Should it be something useful, or something funny? Should I ask her what she wants, or should I make it a surprise? Often, when we buy presents, we buy something we would like rather than thinking about what the recipient would like.
Or perhaps, like me, you buy the first thing you see without thinking about it.
God gives us the best ever birthday present. His Son Jesus is certainly useful. He brings us new life through him. Having Jesus in our lives also brings us joy and eternal happiness.
For me I am repeatedly surprised, and I shouldn’t be, that the forgiveness given freely through Jesus is that special gift, and God knows what I want, even when I don’t.
But God doesn’t give this gift just to please himself, he gives it freely, unconditionally, because he loves us. All we need to do is receive it and celebrate all that he has given us.
Prayer: Gracious and loving Father, every day is a significant day for us, once we have received the gift of your Son Jesus Christ. Thank you that you love us so much that you want to give us that which is so special to you. May we receive the gift with joyful hearts and grateful thanks. AMEN