The Giver Not the Gift

“The grass withers, the flower wilts, the Word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8

Isaiah’s prophecies in chapter 40 are so poetic, but the difference between beautiful poetry and the Word of God, is that God’s Words are true. They will come to pass. Our bodies will become dust, mountains will be levelled, stars will burn out, dictators will shrivel up and return to the earth, but the Word of God stands forever. 

I remember one time a couple of years ago, I was looking for a figurine of the Holy Family in one of the largest department stores in the Philippines. I could find so many snowmen although there is not a molecule of snow in the Philippines. There were a wealth of Santas. I have nothing against Saint Nicholas but he is not the reason for the season. I found one, just one beautiful nativity set, but it was too big to place in the center of my Advent wreath. 

If a pagan walked around the mall, he will have no idea what the celebration is about. There are no pictures or statues or even words to show that Christmas is all about the joy of Jesus’ coming into our world to save us. If the same pagan walked into our home, will he find beautiful shiny trees but no baby Jesus? No bible passage at least? More importantly, if he saw our heart, would he find that we are preparing for Jesus’ coming? Have we been praying more or have we been spending more time wrapping gifts? Have we found the time to read the Bible or have we been too busy decorating our homes? 

Let us remember that all these external decorations, food and gifts, are worthless in the face of our eternal soul. We all need to go back to God who loves us so much He sent His Son to save us. Let us spend some time appreciating the Giver instead of the gifts we give and receive.