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God so Loved... (John 3:16-17)


Scripture of the day: John 3:16-17

16 “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.

Christmas these days seems to be all about gifts – both and receiving them. But do we often focus on the right type of gift?

I read a devotion a few years ago that discussed taking a baby Jesus from a nativity and wrapping it as a gift, then placing it underneath the tree. The wrapping and the recipient were varied, so it was a surprise each year when the baby Jesus was unveiled. But the point was made –Jesus was a gift. He was “given” to the world because God loved us so much he wanted us to be with Him in eternity. The point in receiving this gift in the form of a material present is to remember what the true gift of Christmas really is. Let us remember that, even though Christmas is actually months away. And maybe consider using this idea for yourselves this Christmas season so you can have a great discussion with your family about God’s love and the best gift Christmas has to offer.

Reader, I pray that you take time out today and truly think about Jesus as a gift – given specially to you. To quote Veggie Tales again, “God made you special. And He loves you very much.” During advent, and always, let’s remember that!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father God: Thank you for sending Your Son as a gift to us out of love. Thank you for caring enough about the state of this world to include us in your eternal plans. Please help us remember each year, during Christmas, that the true reason we celebrate is because you loved us so much you sent Jesus to us on this earth. Whether it takes a material item to remind us, or whether it is stamped on our hearts –let Him be our focus. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

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