Christmas time is here. And, who doesn’t love presents? Some come wrapped fancy. Others may be in a brown paper bag–that’s how my brother-in-law wraps his gifts. Newspaper works well, too.

By coming into our world, Jesus wrapped His greatest gifts in Himself. And, He lavished them upon us. So even if you are alone, even if there is no gift with your name on it under the tree–you can look at all the gifts you’ve been given because Jesus Christ was born that first Christmas morn.

Some of my favorites include:

— the gift of wisdom. James 1:5 says if any of you lack wisdom, you can ask of God and He will give it. Whether buying a gift for a friend, struggling to make ends meet, or trying to reconcile a relationship, Jesus never fails to give us wisdom when we ask and pay attention to His response.

— the Holy Spirit. John 16:13 tells us that Jesus gave us the Spirit of Truth, who guides us into all Truth. Regardless of media, politics, or cultural distortions–the Holy Spirit grounds us in the Truth and keeps us from acting on lies that can cause trouble. The Holy Spirit is our Wonderful Counselor, the One who Comforts us, and gives us Peace.

— Freedom. Because Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life that is the Light of men (John 14:6); He keeps us free. Free from darkness and despair. Free from the oppression of those who want us to fall captive to their agendas. Free from choices that may cause future pain.

— Joy. Jesus gives us joy. He helps us see beauty in hidden places. He fills us with hope despite tough circumstances. His great love for each one of us, despite our fallen human nature, produces inexpressable joy–especially at Christmas.

— Protection. This past few weeks, this has been quite personal, as I’ve experienced the wonders of God’s protection. First, when I walked away from an accident that totaled my car. And, then, with COVID. Although I tested positive, despite having at least three high-risk factors, I only had minor symptoms. In fact they were so minor, I thought I had allergies until I saw the test results. 

How about you? Have you opened some of Christ’s precious gifts? What are your favorites? How will you celebrate Him this week? Whether you’re surrounded by family or isolated and alone, may your Christmas be filled with tremendous joy and wonder for the newborn babe, who came into our world to save us and lavish His greatest gifts upon us.