Today is Christmas and our homes are often filled with beautifully wrapped gifts. There is joy in giving and receiving, and there is meaning in thoughtful presents shared with those we love. Yet when the wrapping paper is cleared away and the excitement fades, we are reminded that no earthly gift—no matter how valuable—can fully satisfy the deepest needs of the human heart.
Scripture points us to a far greater gift, one that surpasses every other gift we could ever receive. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that who so ever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Christmas is not simply about what we give one another; it is about what God has given to us—Himself, in the person of Jesus Christ. On my recent trip to join others in the giving out of the shoebox gifts from Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child, I learned that each child that receives one of these boxes receives first a Bible lesson on the “Greatest Gift” the world has ever been given, Jesus.
The apostle Paul reminds us of this truth when he writes, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15). Paul does not name the gift because words cannot fully capture it. Jesus is not merely a gift from God; He is God come near. In Christ, God stepped into human history, took on flesh, and dwelt among us (John 1:14). He came not wrapped in gold, but in old worn rags, a sign of humility, born in a manger so that all might come to Him.
Earthly gifts may bring temporary happiness, but Jesus brings eternal life. He brings forgiveness where there was guilt, hope where there was despair, and light where there was darkness. “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2). That light is Christ, given to the world at Christmas.
Every other gift we receive will eventually fade, break, or be forgotten. But Jesus remains. He is “the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). He is the gift who continues to give—peace to troubled hearts, strength to the weary, and salvation to all who believe.
As we celebrate Christmas today, may our hearts be centered on this truth: the greatest gift under the tree is nothing compared to the Savior who was laid in a manger and is truly the “Greatest Gift” of all the ages. Today, let us receive Him with gratitude, worship Him with joy, and share the good news of this gift with a world still longing for hope.
“She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
This is the gift of Christmas. This is Jesus.
The Covenant Brethren Church Executive Board and Leadership Committees would like to wish each of you a blessed, Christ filled Christmas day.
Grover Duling, CBC Executive Board
