Viewpoint
Don't lose 'the reason'
this gift-buying season
by the Rev. Dr. Joyce B. Duerr
Gift lists and wrapping paper, wreaths, tinsel and holly, Yule lights and candies . . . these are a few of our favorite things to think about at this time of year. Searching for the just right gift for the individual it is so hard to buy for, or finding that whimsical item for the gift exchange gathering . . . is this what is uppermost in our thoughts during this advent season?
We are celebrating a birth - the nativity of Jesus. This is the reason for the season. But how often do we slow down in the hustle and bustle of life to even consider the one whose birth we celebrate. Usually when we prepare for a birthday party we purchase or make a gift for the honored guest. Where does the Christ Child fit in on your Christmas gift list?
I invite you to review your list. Yes, even check it twice. Is Jesus listed there? Ah, you say, but what kind of gift could I give to the one who lived two thousand years ago. And how well do I know this one whose birth we say we celebrate.
If you have yet to meet this Jesus then find a mutual friend who can introduce you. The pastors of our area churches will be honored to hear from you. If your acquaintance with Jesus is distant, then take time to get reacquainted with the Christ Child. As you renew your relationship with Jesus let the Holy Spirit guide you in your gift selection.
Often the most valued gift we can share with a loved one is the gift of our presence. This is precisely the gift that Jesus is looking for from each of us. In the midst of your holiday rush pause to read the story of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke. Take time to visit Jesus at the manger as the shepherds of old did. Luke tells us that “ they hurried and found Mary and Joseph and the baby, who was lying a manger “ (Luke 2:16).
As you renew your own relationship with Jesus invite a friend to join you on your journey. Philip met Jesus and then “Philip found Nathanael and told him, We have found the one Moses wrote about . . . Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph“ (John 1:45). Have you extended an invitation to another to join you at the birthday celebration?
As we journey with Jesus we learn other ways in which to bring our gifts to him. Jesus says to us, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me . . . Whatever you did for one of the least of these . . . You did for me“ (Matthew 25:35-40). What are you doing for Jesus this holy season? What is your gift to Jesus?
Then spend some time with Jesus in solitude even as Jesus spent time with his Father. In the Gospel of Mark we read that “very early in the morning . . . Jesus got up . . . And went off to a solitary place where he prayed” (Mark1:35). Do you take time during each day to pause and spend time with Jesus? This is the wonderful gift of your presence that you can bring to the Christ Child.The Rev. Dr. Joyce Duerr of Westerly is the pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Hope. She can be reached by email at jduerr@riconnect.com.
