Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. —John 3:36
The Christmas season has begun—the season when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World, the Giver of Life! We celebrate life amid the darkness. Even in the dead of winter, we drag an evergreen tree into our homes to remind us that life is coming, that the promised spring advances. Hope is ever present, and life has triumphed. It’s a beautiful time of year to reflect on the life and the hope that we have in Jesus.
Jesus’ birth is the gift of Life, it is the promise of eternity. Before we received the gift of God’s grace, we lived in darkness, where we bore the wrath we deserved, the wrath from our sin. But Jesus rescued us from that wrath, taking it on Himself in our place on the cross. This gift lifted the wrath that was on us, and in its place gave us life. Life is the gift our God gives and it is good. While we are here on Earth, we see glimpses of His good gift of life. I’m often captivated by the beauty of life, worshiping with other believers, hearing children laughing and the sounds of believers praying together, a baby’s gummy smile, an elderly person pouring into a younger generation. Can you imagine what true life might be like, the beauty and joy of eternity?
What about the other bit? The part I don’t like to talk about—what happens to those who do not choose the Son? What about them? Has God removed the wrath they deserve? This gift of eternal life, the gift of having His wrath lifted, is for those who lovingly follow Jesus.
This Christmas Season, let us give the gift of Jesus. As we lovingly follow Him, let us demonstrate His life, His compassion, His mercy and goodness at every opportunity. May we love abundantly, and may we relish the good gifts He has bestowed on us, gifts of grace, love, and mercy. May we point those who are under God’s wrath to the Lord Jesus who came to remove that wrath, and in its place give eternal life.
Wherever you go this season, pray for the people around you; pray that each one will experience His love and grace. Pray for your family members, your friends, and the people God has placed in your life. Pray for opportunities to share the gift we’ve been given.
Merry Christmas!
For Reflection
When did you first come to know Jesus? Share this gift with one person today.
What are some times that you have particularly felt God’s goodness in your life?
Who in your life should you be praying for? Ask God to open your eyes to the opportunities He is giving you to share the gospel.