The Gift
Every Christmas, it seems I get at least one extraordinary, thoughtful, and completely unexpected gift that totally astounds me and even brings tears to my eyes. Usually it’s not the most expensive gift or even something that I’ve asked for or been wanting…but something small that takes me by surprise in all that it represents.
A couple of years ago, I made a casual reference in a sermon to my affection for Reeses Pieces. Many months later at Christmas time, there appeared on my desk a small bag of candy with a heartfelt and loving note from someone within our church family. What touched me is that they would remember, after so many long weeks, something that I had mentioned off-the-cuff in a sermon and then, actually acted on it. What a cool expression of love…a true gift from the Father.
For the last two years, a box of unusual and delicious pastries has shown up at our house in the mail with the simple words, “Thank you for celebrating my birthday. Your big brother Jesus! Be blessed always!” We have no idea who sends it, and everyone we have confronted denies it…Mysterious!…Unexpected…Touching… Priceless.
This past Sunday, I received another such gift that I want to share with you…a simple, handmade Christmas card. It was delivered to me by Don Nicholson on behalf of the inmates at the Prince William County Jail. For the last several years, GLCC has been partnering with Good News Jail and Prison Ministry to provide simple, and much needed, Christmas gifts to the children of inmates who have very little in material and emotional support over the holiday season. GLCC members deliver these gifts, and the families are so appreciative.
The Christmas card (pictured above) was handmade by some of the inmates whose families are receiving the gifts from GLCC, and it is truly beautiful. I wish you could see it in person. The original calligraphy and art are done by pen, and the decorative paper is made from a process of coffee staining. The men didn’t have access to actual art supplies…they just used what they had. The simplicity, time, and care represented in this gift brought tears to my eyes.
Gifts like this remind me of Jesus’ coming to earth on that first Christmas…timely, thoughtful, genuine, simple, and oh so precious. Amidst all of the gift giving of this Christmas season, be sure to keep your eye out for that one gift that reminds you of Jesus. And in that moment, give thanks for a loving Father who through Christ has given you exactly what you need.
This gift does not have to be returned—it fits you perfectly.
This gift does not need batteries, but provides plenty of power.
This gift does not have a limited warranty—there is an eternal warranty.
This gift does not need a maintenance plan, but it does need feeding.
This gift is not a plant but it does produce fruit.
This gift is worn inside you, but it does produce an outward glow.
This gift won’t break.
You won’t put this gift on the shelf in January and wonder in August why someone gave it to you.
This gift was given by someone who loves you.
This gift is unisex.
This gift comes with a wonderful instructional manual.
This gift gives you direct access to the Giver faster than Verizon or Fios can move data.
This gift is not a ship with a strong rudder, but it will help steer you through trouble waters.
This gift does not have wings but it will help you soar.
This gift has some sadness with it, but it will bring you joy.
This gift will make your heart sing even though you can’t carry a tune.
This gift doesn’t provide stuff; it provides salvation.
This gift is free—but you must make a decision to accept it; have you?!
(poem by Dean Dickerson, used with permission)