What Do You Want For Christmas?

As I was thinking about Advent this morning, my mind wandered to presents for those we love and how to delight them in the midst of a pandemic where we are advised not to gather or travel; what a bummer. My mind went through online purchase with shipping, sending gift cards, making some honorary gifts to good causes, or a combination of these.

As often happens, I quit thinking and started listening. I was reminded the best gifts are usually not wrapped or under a tree. The best gifts are gifts of the heart that we remember and treasure throughout our lives. These are the gifts that define our experiences and add value to our lives. Words from Galatians 5:22-23 came to my mind, “The fruit of the Spirit is joy, love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.” Immediately, my heart cried out, “Lord, give me a double helping of that fruit. I need it bad.”

I do not know about you, but I am a little strung out with the pandemic. I am concerned about the conflicting and competing directions of some leaders, and I am pretty much fed up with less than truthful reporting and positioning from parties protecting their own self-interest. I found myself identifying with some of the characters in the scriptures; “My soul cries out, O Lord, how long will you allow this to continue.” My answer came quickly: “Until it is over. Until then, watch yourself, and get ready.”

So, I have decided the best presents are not under the tree. The best presents are those that live in the heart and guide our relationships with God and others. I have decided I really do want a double dose of joy, love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. A double dose might be enough to inoculate me from the brokenness of the world. So, let it be.

By the way, What Do You Want for Christmas?    Blessings, Mike.