At this time of year, gift giving is paramount in many people's thinking. It is one of the traditions that we can sometimes feel we could do without. But when Christmas morning comes, we forget about all the frustration and fatigue.

Of course the greatest gift ever given was when the heavenly Father sent His Son, Jesus, as a Babe in Bethlehem... Jesus, the God-Man, who would save His people from their sins. God has also given us the special gifts of family and loved ones. Because we are social beings, we find much joy in the happy faces of children and the reunion of our families.

We could never thank God enough for all His material blessings. We have so much - too much. Christmas should always be a time of sharing with those less fortunate - a wider circle than "me and mine".  god has also given us the gifts of our five senses to enjoy... snowy landscapes, glittering Christmas trees, the aroma of roasting turkey, the reading of the beautiful Christmas story and singing of the old carols. And as we stand before the dying embers of the fire, how precious is the touch of a loved hand. Truly God has given us all things to enjoy!

But what if God, in His wisdom, has sent sickness, sorrow, rejection, or monetary hardship this year? He always sends the best gifts, that is best for our ultimate good. He has not forgotten us, for in sickness we find "His strength made perfect in weakness," in sorrow He calls, "the heavy laden to rest," in being wronged and hurt, He says, "vengeance is mine I will repay."  And in financial hardship, He reminds us, "my God shall supply all your needs."

Does God always give the best gifts? Yes, by His own loving standards, He sends just what we need. Our part is to receive the gift with an accepting and thankful heart.
(Joyce Rockwell)

There is something about Christmas that seems to bring out the best in human nature. Folks make extra efforts to help the less fortunate with food, clothing and where possible gifts for Christmas. Prince Edward Islanders are amongst the most generous in Canada.

I read recently of a five year old refugee being shown the wonders of a large toy department by his foster parents. His eyes grew wide with wonderment, but gradually an expression of disappointment clouded his face. He began to search up and down the aisles and under the tables and counters. At last he burst out, "But where is the child?"

After an embarrassed silence, a store official ordered a Christmas crib to be found at once and set up in a prominent place in the toy department.  At this, the little boy smiled with delight. Young as he was, he had given a lesson in the real significance of Christmas. He was saying, Jesus is, indeed the reason for the season.

Since it is His birthday which we celebrate soon, what part will He have in your Christmas? Will He be ignored as you share gift giving among yourselves? What part does He play in your life? I hope you'll think about that today.
(Pastor Alex Rockwell)