Sermon 12/18/2011

As Christmas approaches, we begin to focus on the gifts we will give to the ones we love. Taking the time to give a heartfelt and thoughtful gift gives us great joy. God has given mankind the best gift of all -- His Son, Jesus Christ. What have we given back? The Shepherds ran to the stable where Jesus was born, giving their worship as they knelt before Him. The wise men brought gift of gold, frankensense, and myrrh.

What gifts can we give Jesus?

• The Gift of Our Love:
  No matter how scarred and twisted our lives are, God loves us and is ready and willing to forgive our sins, no matter what. We can offer Him back all our love and devotion.
• Extending the Gift of Forgivness:
  Jesus has paid the ultimate price in order to forgive our sins. As such, we are commanded to forgive others, placing any grudge or transgressions by others under the blood of Jesus. We are to show the spirit of forgiveness.
• The Gift of The Gospel:
  We can spread the Good News of the Gospel, being ready to tell others what Jesus Christ has done in our lives.

In our giving this Christmas, let us give the gift that will last for eternity. If you have the Gift of Jesus Christ, you will never be disappointed.

Additional scripture references: John 15:10,12; Luke 2:10