It is that time of year again. People are looking for that perfect gift for an uncle, child, or spouse. Stores are packed, and streets are clogged. Only the crazy risk going to Jackson at this point. It is a joyous time in giving and receiving gifts. What is the best present you have ever received? Maybe it was some jewelry or a car or an education. Maybe it is something like a trip with someone or a phone call or everyone being together at the holidays.
The answer is simple: it has to be the love of God. When you think about the love of God, it is amazing. God created us (Psalm 100:3). God provides for us (Matthew 5:45; Acts 17:25). What was our response to this love? Sin (Romans 3:23). If someone had treated me the way I have treated God, I would probably not be in much of a loving mood toward them. But how does God respond? John 3:16 tells us God still loved us and sent Jesus to save us. Could you imagine sending your son for your creation, whom you had provided so much for, and in return they rejected you and sold themselves into the slavery of sin? Because of the sin that I have committed, I deserve the full wrath of God. That is a scary thought when you read about the wrath of God in the pages of scripture. Jesus hanging on the cross took the punishment I deserve. Wow! “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15).
Stores prey on people who want to give someone something. Cash seems so impersonal so we opt for a gift card which seems slightly more personal. Stores “make” free money when we do not use those gift cards. Do you have any gift cards with money on them or know someone who does? That is my point. What is worse than an unused gift card? Not taking advantage of what Jesus has done for you. Act fast before it is everlasting too late.