The Most Useful Gift

Posted by Jay Overstreet on Dec 22, 2010 in Daily Bread | 3 comments

I love this time of year. Even though things clearly are more hectic, people seem to be positively affected by the season (more patience, grace, love, etc.). It can be a welcome break, and I treasure it.

That said, the aspect I don’t always enjoy is the whole Christmas gift thing – that is, generating the list of stuff you want others to give you and assembling the list of stuff you will give. Then once you have the list, there is the execution. Many of you will likely say “What a great opportunity for introducing advent conspiracy!” (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yerUGAF1w1w&feature=related) Spend less and give more. Give needed gifts to the people who need them most. I fully agree. Our family is working more AC thinking into our gift giving and we are treasuring the conversations and change that it is bringing. However, with immediate and extended family, kids, parents, siblings, cousins, nephews, nieces, etc., advent conspiracy has reduced, but not eliminated, the need for “the lists.”

It is in this frame of mind that I read today’s verses. The phrase “It is by grace you have been saved” comes both immediately before and after verses 6-7. I have heard grace defined as an “undeserved gift,” and when I read these verses I realize again how undeserved the Christmas gift of Jesus is. Because of what Jesus has done for us in His death and resurrection, our status with God is such that we are seated with Christ on the throne of heaven. God has also done this so as others see His saving gift manifested in our lives, they may take encouragement in what He is able to do and be drawn to Him.

Enjoy your perfect Christmas gift this season.