ACTS 20:35
Like many others, my favorite holiday is Christmas, with Christmas music playing on my radio, decorating a tree and loving the way that it makes the room smell, visiting family, eating big meals, and one of my favorites—helping my dad build a fire in the fire place so we can sit around and enjoy its warmth. The big reason I love Christmas is because of the presents. We all love getting something wrapped in pretty paper, don’t we? I’m sure you’ve felt it just as I have. I always feel depressed when the sun sets on Christmas night. I sigh and then remind myself Jesus came on Christmas Day to give, not to receive. Looking back on Christmases past, the times I gave were my happiest times of the season. Last Christmas, my youth group made little treat bags to pass out, then we went caroling. I can’t sing even if my life depended on it, and I really don’t like to knock on people’s doors. That night was dark and very cold, and it was raining as we shivered while one of us dared to knock and another one of us held the treat bag. When the door opened, we would start singing (very off-key) and hand the person the treat bag. Even though I was doing things I thought I hated, my heart felt happy and full because I was giving to someone else. Jesus came to give Himself to us. That’s why Christmas is one of the best times for us to give. I always think of Jesus handing me the wonderful gift of salvation. It’s what makes Christmas so special and unique, and it’s the best gift I’ll ever receive.
Rebecca Wilson, 18, Maranatha Christian Academy, Oakwood, GA
Jesus, please show me more ways to give this Christmas.
When I think about how much You gave for me, I just want
to give everything I can to those around me.