From the Pastor’s Desk: The Purpose of the Gift
As we journey through this Christmas season, I’ve found myself reflecting on the gifts we exchange and what they truly represent. Gifts are expressions of love, thoughtfulness, and sometimes sacrifice. But more importantly, gifts remind us of the ultimate act of love—the gift of Jesus Christ, given by God to the world.
In John 3:16, we read these familiar words: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse captures the heart of Christmas. The purpose of God’s gift wasn’t to impress or overwhelm—it was to save, restore, and bring us into an eternal relationship with Him.
The purpose of the gift of Jesus is rooted in love. God didn’t send His Son out of obligation or necessity. He sent Jesus because of His immeasurable love for you and me. The birth of Christ in a humble stable reveals that God’s love reaches into the ordinary places of our lives, transforming them into something extraordinary.
The purpose of the gift is also reconciliation. Sin created a barrier between humanity and God, but through Jesus, that barrier was torn down. His birth, life, death, and resurrection bridged the gap and made a way for us to walk in fellowship with our Creator.
Finally, the purpose of the gift is hope. In a world often marked by uncertainty and pain, Jesus brings the promise of a future filled with His peace and presence. The angels proclaimed it best on the night of His birth: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14).
As you unwrap presents this year, I encourage you to pause and reflect on the gift that was unwrapped in a manger over 2,000 years ago. That gift, wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger, is the greatest gift you could ever receive.
May the purpose of God’s gift fill your heart with gratitude, inspire you to share His love with others, and remind you of the hope we have in Him.
Merry Christmas,
Pastor Chris Tullis
Grace Christian Center
"Empowered by Grace, Living in Faith, Growing in Christ"