(Did I get the heading wrong? It’s Easter not Christmas – read on and you decide.)
A wealthy man was inspired to give a great gift to several people he knew. His nature was gentle and caring, and his heart was kind. He wanted to help them in their struggling existence. The gift that he desired to give to each of them was a gift that he knew would help them greatly.
The response he received varied according to each recipient.
Sadly, one would not accept the gift. He didn’t trust the giver and was suspicious that his life would never be his own. He was scared that someday he might have to do something, which he didn’t want.
One couldn’t believe that it was true, and she ignored the promised gift. The gift was beyond belief; nobody could be that generous!
Another said that she didn’t want the gift, but instead wanted to do everything on her own. She was too proud!
The fourth person didn’t want the gift now but wanted the way left open so that he could have it later if he felt that it would suit his purposes. He lost his opportunity.
The last recipient took the gift thankfully and used it to his own blessing and to the blessing of others.
God is like the wealthy man, except the gift he must give is unique and of immeasurable value. It is a gift that he alone can give. He wants every person he knows to have it. He knows us all. He is our creator. The gift is the gift of life. He gives it to us through his Son and he wants us to have it now! The gift will last forever. Jesus declares the message of the Father and assures us that the gift is for us. The words GIVEN FOR YOU FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS resonate clearly the great love the Father has for us.
May he (God) enlighten the eyes of your mind so that you can see what hope his call holds for you, what rich glories he has promised the saints will inherit.
EPHESIANS 1: 18 NIV
Neil P. Schiller