The Joy of Giving and Receiving
By now, you have wrapped and unwrapped the gifts under the tree. I imagine there was laughter, excitement, joy, and maybe even a few tears. The way we approach gift wrapping and unwrapping reflects the different personalities and traditions present during the holidays.
Some people meticulously wrap every gift, while others opt for a simple bag. Some carefully cut every piece of tape, while others tear into presents without checking the tags. These varied methods all add to the unique experience of the season.
No matter where you fall on the spectrum, wrapping and opening gifts can bring great joy to both the giver and the recipient.
A Gift That Became a Memory
Reflecting on my own experiences, I have given and received gifts that have brought great joy to my life. One of my favorite memories is the year “Santa” gave our daughter a Disney trip for Christmas.
It took a lot of planning and coordination, but I found a local Santa to record a video announcing the trip to her on Christmas morning. Our daughter was completely blown away by the generosity. The gift deepened her faith in Santa, because she knew her mom and dad could never afford such an extravagant surprise on their own.
Generosity That Changes Lives
Our community’s generosity has directly impacted those we serve. One example is a donated car that was given to a single mom whose children participate in our program. She has also used our parent support services, and the gift has made a meaningful difference in her family’s life.
Through the Children’s Home and SHINE for Your Future, we help children, at-risk youth, and families move forward. We are deeply grateful for a community that believes in and supports our mission.
The Greatest Gift of All
As we celebrate generosity in our community, we also remember that one gift rises above the rest.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
John 3:16–17 (ESV)
When God gave us Jesus as the atoning sacrifice for our sins, He ensured that those who choose to accept this gift would have an abundant life filled with grace, peace, and hope.
There will never be an earthly gift that compares to God’s gift of redemption. In light of everything we do, and all that I desire for those we serve, my greatest hope is this: that they would receive God’s gift of His Son, Jesus, and that we would accept Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins.
These two acts are the greatest gifts we could ever receive.