The spirit of Christmas giving
We often think it’s human nature to be selfish, and while that may be true due to our sinful nature, the Bible informs us that part of our identity is as image bearers for God. And because ours is an incredibly generous God, this identity implies that we were created to reflect that generosity.
As we approach Christmas, let’s dive into how it’s important to harbour a character of generosity and why. To do so, we look to John 3:16-18 which clearly tells us what Jesus came to Earth to do, for what reason and thus which people will be blessed by it. But what insights does this give to why we should be generous?
The love of God: Although the world is full of sin and rebellion against God, we find that God still loves the unlovable world. As image bearers, it's our duty then to extend the love of God to others.
The generosity of God: Gifts are a dependable method of showing someone you love them. At Christmas, on birthdays or special anniversaries, we find ourselves giving gifts to our loved one/s to show just how much we care and love them. For example, when someone is sick, you might send them a message, give them flowers or even cook (or buy) a meal for them. As God loved us so much, He gave the most incredible and generous gift, His Son, who lived and died for us despite our sinner status (Romans 5:8).
The benefit to us: Verse 18 tells us that Jesus took us out from condemnation and into an eternal life with Him. In this we are given several privileges, such as being in a right relationship with God, being called His children, and being granted citizenship of His very own kingdom. And although life in God’s coming kingdom won’t be fully realised until the end of time, we realise eternal life the moment we finally turn and acknowledge the true and living Christ in how we live (Ephesians 5:1) and how we’re transformed by the Spirit day by day (2 Corinthians 3:18).
With this knowledge, how can we be generous?
Rest in the love of God
As generosity flows from love and love flows from God, when we rest ourselves in God’s love, we’ll find that generosity will naturally flow out of us unto others. If you’re unsure of what it means to rest in the love of God, then we must admit we’ve never truly loved others (1 John 4:19-21). Seek to rest in the love of God. Allow yourself to see the transformative nature of God’s love in your life in the way you see yourself and in the way you treat others.
Reflect on the generosity of God
Our generosity for others should stem from the love we receive from God. In response to what Jesus has freely and lovingly given us (1 John 3:16-17), it might help to ask ourselves how we can be accurate reflectors of God through generously giving time, money, resources, and care.
Rejoice in the gift of God
Last but not least, God’s free gift of His Son changes our whole perspective on what really matters. Once we allow ourselves to receive the love of the one eternal and living God, how can we not rejoice in Him? This perspective should make it easier for us to give and commit to selfless acts in this life as it’s part of our everyday joy.
Lord God,
We thank You for Your love that is so generous that You would pay a high price to take us from condemnation to life. We pray that we reflect and meditate on Your love and generosity, so that we may also wholeheartedly be generous in this world.
We pray this in Jesus name,
Amen.