Gift of Love

By: Nancy Abiera

 

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Ihave been in America for over 36 years now. However, I still cherish how Christmas is celebrated back in the Philippines. I must conclude that when it comes to celebrations, Pinoys are superb when it comes to preparations, decorations, food, program, participants, etc. It is so appropriate for the Philippines because its meaning is “The Country of Brotherly Love” rooted from Greek word “phileo”.

Christmas in the United States is so different compared to Christmas in the Philippines. However, I appreciate the most in terms of Christmas in the U.S. is the emphasis on Jesus-centered celebration. It is simple yet profound. I guess being away from my biological family brought me to be look and fi nd spiritual families in God. In fact, I only started having a personal love relationship with Jesus when I came to Chicago. That was a life changing moment for me I was so thankful for. I did not realize that I almost missed the true meaning of Christmas for over 26 years. Praise God for God’s great love and patience for me.

One more thing also I remember is the classic song in 1970 popularized by Michael Jackson “Give Love On Christmas Day”. Though it was a secular song, it gives so much meaning to what Christmas is all about, that is the “Giving of Love”. Not only is Jesus the gift of love, He is love and the giver and source of love.

I encourage you all to celebrate Christmas whatever ways you are accustomed to. However, be mindful to honor this day, the birthday celebrant, Jesus, who came from Heaven to Earth. Jesus is the Perfect Gift Of Love. He is the author and perfector of Love. He is the reason for the season. Let’s give our life… our present as well as our future to Jesus as our gift to Him. Let us not leave out Christ on Christmas Day as it is His birthday to begin with.

May you all have a Blessed Christmas as you open your heart to Jesus as we sing (excerpt below)…

“Joy To The World”
“Joy to the world, the Lord is come
Let earth receive her King
Let every heart prepare Him room. . .”
“Give love on Christmas Day…”
“Why don’t you give love
on Christmas day? (On Christmas day)
Even the man who has everything
Would be so happy if you would bring
Give love on Christmas day. (On Christmas day)
No greater gift is there than love.
What the world needs is love.
Yes, the world needs your love.”

Let us all share the love of Jesus to our family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and loved ones. It’s free that brings so much freedom.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to us as your expression of great love to us. We open our hearts and make room for Jesus. May Jesus be displayed in us especially this Christmas day and everyday so we chan share His love to others. In Jesus Name, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Always choose “On A Bright Side” moving further and farther “On A Brightest Side”. I love you readers with the love of the Lord yet the Lord loves you the most. You are so blessed/favored. Smile and be a blessing!

Rev. Nancy H. Abiera