An
Inkling
“Yo, Mr. Angel! I need your help. We drew names at church for a Christmas gift
exchange, and – you’re not going to believe this – I drew Jesus. Holy Holidays! What should I get? Talk about Someone who really does have
everything!”
“What have you thought of so
far?”
“Well, I remember the gifts
that the wisemen brought: gold,
frankincense, and myrrh. I thought maybe
I’d try one of those. I know he got them
once already, but it’s been 2000 years – maybe he could use some more.”
“Well, actually, I’m not sure
they really worked the first time. The
wisemen meant well, but they didn’t understand what sort of king Jesus would
be. What Jesus really needed at that
point was not gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but food, blankets, and a place to
stay.”
“Oh well. It’s the thought that counts.... And I’m thinking, but it’s not counting for
much.”
“That's because you’re
thinking about what to buy. Think instead
about what you already have.”
“Oh, I get it! Jesus is into recycling! That’s cool!
We have some stuff in our shed we’re not using anymore: some hand me downs and old appliances. They just need a little work and they’ll be
ready to go.”
“I think you’re missing my
point. He still doesn’t need gold,
frankincense, or myrrh, recycled or new, or really any kind of stuff.”
“Well then, I’m stumped. What should I give him?”
“He’s not interested in what
you have. He’s interested in you. How about giving yourself this Christmas?!”
“Hmmm. That’s a little pricier than I was thinking.”
“Yep – it’s the cost of a
gift money can’t buy.”
“Of course, if I do give myself, at least I won’t have to
worry about him getting two the same.”
“That’s for sure! And I happen to know that you’re exactly what
he wants for Christmas this year.”
And you – what will you be
giving Jesus this Christmas? He really
wants only one thing:
You!
Keith
You!
Keith
