The Gift That Keeps On Giving

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let

him who hears say, “Come!” Whoever is thirsty,

let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take

the free gift of the water of life.

                                   Revelation 22:17 NIV 

     We happily give Christmas gifts to those we love and appreciate. However, sometimes we must give because we belong to a group that exchanges names for gift giving. When that happens, we may reach into a bowl filled with names and pull out the name of someone we know little about, and shopping for a gift becomes a chore rather than a joy. Too often we choose the gift simply to fulfill the obligation with little thought of the person receiving the gift.

     This year two of our children, aware that their dad needed a new circular saw, each purchased the same gift. On Christmas Eve, we giggled as we watched him eye the boxes. We anticipated his reaction as we enjoyed the secret surrounding his gift. He gladly received each gift (the man loves new tools) and we all laughed knowing his gifts would soon be put to work.

     As I thought about the end of the gift-giving season, I thought about the greatest gift ever given. Some try to keep God’s gift of eternal life a secret by denying God exists or that Jesus is the One and Only Begotten Son of God. Some try to add to the gift by stating that Jesus is A son of God but not THE Son of God—inferring that the Bible lies. Others do not believe that this gift could possibly be meant for them.

     But as we end 2013 it is important to clarify that God’s gift belongs to all who will believe and receive. God’s gift will never wear out, break or go out of style. God’s gift brings peace, joy and freedom from the penalty of sin. God’s gift is available now! God’s gift is mercy, love and grace and immerses you and me in the river of eternal life. 

     It is free to all who will believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Accepting God’s gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ His Son is the best way to end 2013 and begin 2014. God’s gift is life-giving and life-changing.

     Romans 6:23 – For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

     Second Corinthians 5:21 –  God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

     Romans 10:9-10 – That if you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

     Romans 10:13 – For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. (all Scriptures NIV)

     If you have never accepted the free gift of God, today is the perfect time. After all…it is the Gift That Keeps On Giving!

© Joyce Powell