THE BEST GIFT

 In Isaiah 9:6, we read: “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder.”

“The service was long.” Timmy sighed. He followed Grandfather down the church steps, hopped into the truck.

“Didn’t get much out of it, huh? What’d you do? Count the light bulbs?” Grandfather chuckled. “Guess I thought the same when I was your age.”

Seatbelts fastened, Grandfather pulled into the street, headed south. “We’re not going home?”

“Nope. Thought we’d take a detour.” Out of town, he turned down a dirt road filled with pot holes and deep ruts. Timmy leaned forward.

“The farm?” Grandfather nodded, stopped the truck. “That old barn looks like it’s about to fall down.”

“Come on.” He reached behind his seat, pulled out a bag. “I brought lunch. Grab that blanket, will you?” He pushed open the barn door, motioned his grandson inside. Timmy sneezed.

“This place is a palace compared to the stable where our Lord was born,” Grandfather said. “Help me spread the blanket.” Timmy remained quiet as they ate their sandwiches.

The December wind whistled through the cracks, stirring bits of hay and debris. Dust motes danced in the beams of light.

“Why did the Lord Jesus have to be born in such a place? Why not a palace?” 

“He chose to remove His royal robes in Heaven and come to earth as a helpless baby," Grandfather said. "He did it to offer everyone His grace and love, no matter if they’re lowly born or born in a fancy home. He invites whosoever to come.”

“That includes me,” Timmy whispered, turned to Grandfather, tears in his eyes. “I am so sorry. I forgot what He did for me.”

Grandfather put his arm around his shoulders. “I understand. We humans have a tendency to accept the gifts He gives and forget we receive the gifts because He took our place on the cross.” Timmy dipped his head. “But the good news? He loves us and He understands us.” His head snapped up. He smiled.

Kingdom Thinking. This Christmas season with the Covid 19 along with hardships and unrest shows me the real meaning of Christmas. It’s not about the gifts I give or receive but The Gift the Lord gives--Eternal Life. He came to earth as a baby to prepare the way to Heaven. He loves me and has a plan for my life. He presents you with the Gift. Won’t you receive it?