What Will You Give?
Author
Jonatán Toledo
Summary: At Christmas, we often think about gifts for our loved ones, but we may forget to offer something to Christ, who is the reason for the celebration. The incarnation reveals God’s greatest gift: Jesus came in humility, gave his entire life, and served others. In light of his example, let us celebrate differently by giving him our best service through transformed lives that are willing to serve both inside and outside the church. Jesus gave up the throne, power, and kingdom to choose the manger, the condition of a servant, and the cross. Following the Master means giving ourselves completely and becoming a church that serves.
At Christmastime, we always think about what to give our loved ones. However, it is ironic how many of us forget to set aside a gift for Christ when, in fact, he is the reason we celebrate Christmas. In the December 11 sermon, I explore the meaning of Christ’s incarnation as the best gift God gave us. Jesus came to serve among us and gave us his entire life in service. In light of his gift, I felt in my heart that I should urge our congregation to celebrate Christmas differently this year; that together we should commit ourselves to giving Jesus our best service through transformed lives that are willing to serve inside and outside the church. I encouraged our congregation to become a church that serves.
The next day, I received the following phrases:
Jesus:
- Came to a manger and not to a throne
- Lived as a servant and not as a king
- Chose a cross and not a kingdom
- Gave everything, not merely a part
As soon as I read these words, I was filled with joy when I saw that the Holy Spirit is placing the same conviction in different people concerning service. It is time for us to follow the example of our Master and live a life of service to others.