Exchange Gifts
CHRISTMAS
The angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.”Lk 2:1-14
Jolly Old St. Nicholas is an old favorite among Christmas carols. I like the simple lyrics that follow:
Johnny wants a pair of skates
Suzie wants a sled
Nellie wants a picture book
Yellow, blue and red
Now that I have told to you
What to give the rest
Pick for me, dear Santa Claus
What you think is best
The writer could not decide what gift to ask Santa and so he left Santa to decide on what is best for him. I think this is something most people have forgotten in giving or receiving gifts. The gift is free – no one spends for it except the giver. And most important of all it is always the giver who decides what to give the receiver.
Everyone got a present from everybody. What present did Jesus decide to give you? In our Christmas card this year we have a list of gift suggestions. Did Jesus give you any of these gifts that were suggested?
1) forgiveness for an enemy. 2) tolerance for an opponent. 3) kindness for a friend. 4) service to a customer. 5) charity to all. 6) good example to every child. 7) respect to yourself. 8) holiness to ourselves.
Everyone gave a present to everybody. What present did you give to Jesus? This is another thing most people have forgotten. Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. Of all people He should be the one receiving gifts from us.
A monk was once at a lost as to what to give Jesus on Christmas. He was sad that he did not give Jesus a gift.
When Jesus asked him, “Where is my gift?” he answered, “What else could I give a person who has
everything – a person who gave me everything? What do I have that did not come from you?”
“Your sins, my son. Give them to me so that I can save you.”
Give up your sins to Jesus. It is the only reason why He was born. But when you do never take it back.
Disclaimer: This section of the website is a personal creative writing of the author and does not necessarily reflect the official views, opinion, or policies of the Salesians of Don Bosco – Philippines South Province. For concerns on the content, style, and grammar of this piece, please contact us.
