Christmas Gifts from Jesus

I'm glad Jesus doesn't give gifts based on whether I've been naughty or nice...I was thinking about the "gifts" Jesus gives this season...so much to ponder. Of course we all think about the gift of Himself, coming as a baby to bring "peace on earth good will to men," completely fulfilled through the work of the cross and resurrection -- "His inexpressible gift," the "gift of God...eternal life through Jesus the Messiah our Lord." We know that "every good and perfect gift comes from above." So after we openned all of our presents, we stood in the midst of them as a family and thanked Jesus for them specifically. It helps put things like an Xbox or new toy into perspective. But I was pondering this:, “When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.” He "gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service." He gave the gift of the Holy Spirit, and spiritual gifts along with Him to any who would receive, and "earnestly desire/seek" them, just like a child looking forward to all those gifts under the tree. These gifts are irrevokable, not even based upon character, but given, undeserved, based upon grace: word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, tongues, interpretation of tongues...But like any gift, even if it is freely given, it has to be received and openned. (Ref. - James 1:17, 2 Cor. 9:15, Romans 6:23, Eph. 4:8; Acts 2:38; Rom. 11:29; 1 Cor. 12)

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