The Gift That Keeps Giving

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 

As we embark on the holiday season, I want to talk a little about the gift that keeps giving.  As we all know, the holiday season is a magical time to spend with loved ones and to remind ourselves about the spirit of giving and what it means to be given second chances.   I know that this year has looked a little strange but as you read this blog, I hope that you are reminded that LOVE is infinite.  

The gift that keeps giving...I love gifts!! I love to be pampered and receive things that make me feel good, who doesn't like gifts!?  In 22 years of my life, I have received many beautiful gifts, from bikes to my favorite AirPods, to money, to that handbag I wanted, to life, to passing semesters after semesters. I can name many gifts and miracles in my life, but The Best Gift I Have Ever Received is the gift of LIFE!  Life is sweet guys! Especially when you have the favor of God on your life, you enjoy it simply because you have true peace. Many people don't have peace, joy, and love, and if you can sleep every night and wake up every morning with those three things... even if you don't have all the materialistic things in the world, you have health and strength then that's all you need.  That is the gift that keeps giving, because as long as you have those simple but necessary things, God can give you the rest. Don't fight so hard to chase a dream, chase God and he will give you your dreams.  The gift of having Christ in your life is not like Santa Claus or a genie, but a relationship about gives and take. If you trust God, he will allow others to bless you. All you have to do is just believe that everything will work out sooner than later and focus on the prize of your salvation. 

This marvelous gift as we know as Jesus Christ was born to save us, was born to be our friend, and was born to be everything we need. And when we accept him, he continues to give the gift that was given to us which was love and forgiveness. I don't want you guys to ever forget how good God is to us, even when it doesn't feel like God is there, he's always there for us. Jesus is the gift that was given to the world for in John 3:16 it says God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life". Every time someone accepts him or trusts him that gift of love and forgiveness continues to spread and make a difference in someone else's life. Let me tell you the story of why Jesus is such a wonderful gift. He was born in a manger by a virgin, and it was said: "For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" Isaiah 9:6. Whatever you need Christ to be in your life, he is because he has taken care of every need before you even realized that there was a problem.  

Do you remember a time when you were a kid and received a gift? Do you remember how excited and thankful for that gift you really wanted? The gift of life, peace, and joy shouldn't be taken for granted, and the more you realize the blessings in the little things, you are more appreciative of how truly good God is. I want you to take a moment and reflect on the miracles God has done in your life; when he allowed a way for you to get your car fixed or an extension on a bill that was due, or the fact that your family was protected, and given provision after provision. These gifts are given graciously because it's not in God's will for his people to be in lack. The gift of Jesus Christ was given for free; you don't have to pay money to receive him,

nor do you have to sacrifice a lot. All you have to do is believe and work towards a relationship, by finding a church that will speak to you the word of God, pray, and reading the word for yourself. As I wrap up this blog, on this holiday season remember to love one another, forgive others, and continue to show others the way of a life of abundance.  Also, if you feel led to try to help someone else who may not feel too cheerful and to show some love and grace towards others. 

Have a wonderful holiday and may God shine his blessings on you forevermore!