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“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (ESV)

Ever sneaked around looking for your Christmas present? Hate to admit it but I was a nosey little girl. Regardless of whether or not that package had my name on it or not, I was determined to shake it. I’ve even been known to unwrap and then rewrap and act totally surprised on Christmas Day. Have to admit the second surprise wasn’t as much fun, and the first surprise was overrated – I was the only one enjoying it. Sounds silly to recount my nosiness now. I’d much rather wait and experience the surprise on Christmas morning.

Ever searched through scripture seeking God’s amazing Christmas gift? His arrival was anticipated, His birth expected yet the way He came was totally surprising. No one had any idea Mary would be the virgin mother of Jesus, especially Joseph. Who would have thought that the babe would be born in a stable and sleep in a manger filled with straw? Not exactly a royal birth. And what about that starry sky that led others to Bethlehem….shepherds and Wise Men were clueless to where it would lead.

The gift, the promise, the presence of God living among us. Experiencing the good, the bad and yes, the ugly. Totally undeterred and unencumbered by temporary pleasures of this world. Jesus, the very Son of God came, healed, rescued, delivered and redeemed. Fulfilling every promise.

I remember as a child unwrapping the gift of the Savior. Sweetest moment ever – totally unsure of the significance this gift would make in my life. Tiny little mind couldn’t even grasp the magnitude of His presence living and breathing in me. Amazing how a simple prayer began an incredible work within me. While doubts and wonderings may have followed, Jesus never left me and kept reminding me of His ever presence. Always surprising me with His love and grace.

Sweet friend, if you have never opened His gift there is no better time than now. Can’t think of a better present this Christmas than to experience the fullness of God. When we simply confess our sins and believe He is the Christ child, God promises to welcome us as His own. We are His forever and life will never be the same. Difficulties will still emerge. Struggles will challenge us. But we can endure them all filled with His joy living and breathing within us – Best gift ever!

“Father, the depth of Your love cannot be measured. You gave Your only Son so we could experience eternity with You – what more could we ever want.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life