In Touch - December 24, 2005

In Touch Daily Devotional 
by Dr. Charles Stanley

Saturday December 24, 2005

A Time for Giving

Luke 2:1-20

As shop owners realize, Christmastime is typically marked by increased generosity. We often hear messages about halting the commercialization of Christ’s birth, but we should not totally do away with the spirit of giving that pervades the season. After all, this day symbolizes the moment when God gave mankind His greatest gift.

Before Christ was born, God had given humanity an abundance of blessings. He created a world with varied environments to be enjoyed and a universe intended to reflect His glory. In addition to giving us life, He designed our minds for creative thought and practical reasoning. But though man could live in the Lord’s creation and think upon His majesty, he could not enter into His presence. And though God loved people, He could not tolerate their sin.

The Father’s love made a way to bridge the gap between mankind and Himself. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16) — no other words could express God’s gift better. In addition, the Lord sent His Spirit as our Helper, and He also gave us the promise of His constant care and protection.

Divine gifts aren’t meant to be hoarded. Believers should be generous with the wonderful news of God’s saving grace. Let the season of giving inspire you to share your faith. As you open gifts and enjoy Christmas traditions with your family and friends, ask God, “With whom do You want me to share the gift of Jesus Christ?”