Perfect Gift Takes Reflection and Sacrifice

Have you purchased or made all your Christmas gifts yet? What do you get that one person who means the most to you? Ever have a hard time figuring out the perfect present?

I have all the Christmas gifts on my list – all except for one. I’ve been thinking about what to get ever since Pastor Mike told us we would be giving presents at church on Sunday, December 26^th. These presents are not for mere mortals, but for Jesus, the King, and Saviour of the world.

Last night I watched a movie that also talked about giving a gift to Jesus. The movie, The Bishop’s Wife, has David Niven as the bishop. Loretta Young is the bishop’s wife. And Cary Grant? He is the … No, you have to see the movie to found out who he is.

Anyway, at the end of the movie, the Bishop gives his Christmas Eve sermon. This is a sermon that could be preached at our church this coming Sunday. In fact, it could be a “trailer” for Pastor Mike’s sermon. Read on for the Bishop’s admonition and suggestion for a gift.

David Niven’s Introduction to Pastor’s Sermon on Sunday

Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking. Once upon a midnight clear there was a child’s cry. A blazing star hung over a stable and wisemen came with birthday gifts.

We haven’t forgotten that night down the centuries. We celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, with the sound of bells, and with gifts. But especially with gifts.

You give me a book. I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange-squeezer. And Uncle Henry could do with a new pipe. But we forget nobody, adult or child. All the stockings are filled.

All that is except one. And we have even forgotten to hang it up. A stocking for the child born in a manger. It’s His birthday we are celebrating. Don’t let us ever forget that. Let us ask ourselves what He would wish for most. And then let each one put in his share. Loving kindness … warm hearts … and the stretched out hand of tolerance. All the shining gifts that make peace on earth.

Have you thought about what gift you will bring to the Blessed Child on Sunday? Will it be loving kindness, a warm heart, or the stretched out hand of tolerance? An improved attitude? A material possession?  An action? A new habit?

During my walks this week I’ve been reflecting upon this same question. I have a general sense of what I think would please Jesus most. I also sense it will require sacrifice on my part. A giving up of my will for His. I am trying to narrow down the idea into a sentence or two. I am confident that by Sunday, I will be ready to present my gift to the Lord of Lords and King of Kings.

Will you be ready too?

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