December 26 and Matthew 25

Posted by Chris Gallagher on Dec 26, 2009 in Uncategorized | 0 comments

The morning silence was broken when six feet, carrying our three children, made their way downstairs to see what “magically” appeared overnight. With each step, their bodies began to move faster and the sleepiness began to fade from their eyes. Reaching the fourth step from the bottom, they were able to see the tree and the surprises which lay underneath. Their eyes opened wide and filled with the sparkles of a Christmas morning. The presents under the tree brought smiles to their innocent faces and the annual tearing of the paper was about begin!

What happened next seems to take place every year; Santa leaves about two presents for each child and those are the first to be seen and held. After a brief moment, the focus turns to the wrapped ones; the ones from Mom and Dad. Without a word, each child begins to pass out the gifts for everyone but themselves. They want to see what everyone else got, more than what was given to them. I am amazed and excited by their gift of giving, but more amazed at what God was given us.

The presents under the tree were not attained by human achievement, but they were given as a gift from the Father of Lights. (James 1.17) While Carrie and I may have spent hours in the stores, clicking online stores and even searching for the gifts, they are not possible without the God of Heaven!

Every Christmas I am reminded of a short parable speaking a GIANT truth, known as the “Parable of the Talents.” The verse that brings the most significance to my life is this:

“For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance.” (Matthew 25.29; ESV)

Jesus’ words are spoken as the result of the lazy servant. The one talent man was entrusted with a gift from the master and never used it. Instead, because of fear, he hid the gift and never put it to use. Granted, the gifts at Christmas time are not the same as the ones in Matthew 25, but shouldn’t we use the gifts that we have been given?

Just asking and thinking. I hope you have a wonderful and blessed day!

Just my thoughts,

Chris