By now, the after-holiday blues have settled in: the decorations are packed away, the routine of work has resumed, empty boxes have been taken to the dump, and the first few toys have already proved less-than-satisfactory.
It’s far too easy for us to put too much stock in one particular present that we hope to receive. Whether a toy… a particular kitchen appliance… or the latest electronic gadget, we often find ourselves disappointed in some facet of a gift we receive. It doesn’t live up to its hype, it doesn’t do what we wanted, it breaks within the first week, or it just doesn’t fit right. Or maybe it was a cheap substitution to the gift we really wanted to receive.
I’m grateful that God’s gifts are always the best available on the market! They aren’t cheap substitutions, they don’t wear out or break, and they always fit just right! Paul tells us about some of those gifts:
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement
give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15: 5-6)
Endurance. Encouragement. Unity. When you’re tempted to give up this year, remember that God gives endurance. When you it seems that all hope is lost, claim the gift of encouragement. And in our broken relationships, let us join Paul in asking for the gift of “one mind and once voice”–the gift of unity.
These gifts are not simply to sit on a shelf or to display as a household decoration. They are not simply gifts to give us “warm fuzzies.” These gifts are to enable us to glorify God – that our very lives might bring praise to His Name.
Everlasting God – Far too often I have put my hope in the gifts that this world has to offer–money, power, fame, or luxury. Help me to learn to seek out your gifts instead. I thank you for the endurance to continue on through the night. I thank you for the encouragement found in scripture and in the Body of Christ. Help me to live at peace with all, that we might glorify your Name together. (PASTOR JON TWITCHELL)