Your Personal Christmas Gift
Scripture Reading:
Luke 2:10-12 (NASB95) "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.'"
John 1:14 (NASB95) "And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth."
Cowboy Wisdom: At the end of a long cattle drive, the cowboys would gather around the campfire, bone-tired but satisfied with a job well done. The trail boss would often give each man a bonus—something personal to show appreciation for his work. But here's the difference with God's gift: we didn't earn it, we don't deserve it, and we could never work hard enough to pay for it. Jesus is God's personal Christmas present to you—not because you're good enough, but because He loves you that much.
Reflection: The angel said, "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior." Did you catch those words? "For you." Personal. Individual. Specific.
God didn't send Jesus to save humanity as an abstract concept. He sent Him for you—with your specific struggles, your particular sins, your unique story. The baby born in Bethlehem grew into a man who died on a cross for your sins and was raised from the dead to give you eternal life.
This is a gift you can't earn, can't buy, and can't deserve. All you can do is receive it by putting your faith and trust in Him.
Questions for Reflection:
Have you personally received God's gift of salvation through Jesus Christ? If not, what's holding you back?
If you have received this gift, how does knowing it's personal—specifically for you—change how you view your relationship with God?
Who needs to hear about this free gift of hope, freedom, and salvation? How can you share it with them?
Prayer Focus: If you've never trusted Christ as your Savior, today can be your day. Talk to God honestly. Admit you're a sinner who can't save yourself. Believe that Jesus died for your sins and rose again. Trust Him as your Lord and Savior. If you're already a believer, thank God for His indescribable gift and ask Him to give you boldness to share this good news with others. Pray for specific people by name who need to know Jesus.
