Christmas Shopping

First, let's remember that "Jesus is the reason for the Season." Christ came to this earth born of a virgin, laid in a manger with swaddling clothes, He lived a perfect and sinless life (something we humans can not do), he died was crucified and buried and then arose from the grave all that we might have life eternal. Jesus gift was the ultimate gift, the gift of eternal life.

As we celebrate what we call "Christmas" and as we shop let's remember Jesus sacrifice for us and His gift to us.

Homemade gifts: think of something someone might like, and find a way to make a gift for them.

Dollar Tree, my Pastor often teases the congregation and says "If Wal-Mart don't have it, you don't need it." He's right, but he's got the store wrong and because everything is $1 or less at Dollar Tree (and they carry Bibles, or have in my area), you're not likely to be fighting to get something on sale.

Garage Sales: Some people don't like getting presents at Garage Sales because it's used. If it is something I want or need and can use, I have no problem with garage sales or Yard Sales.

Library Book Sales. If you buy a VCR Video from the library make sure your recipient still has a VCR. Books are an excellent choice for readers, cookers, and learners. I gave my pastor a book on golf which I paid a whopping 50 cents for. I have another book by Bob Newhart that I will likely give to my sister for Christmas.

Craigslist: Craigslist is usually local or regional, and you may have to go get the present. Craigslist has a search box where you can search for something you are interested in.

Your Attic or storage shed: Look in your attic or storage shed and see if there is something there that someone else might need or want.

Your Love: There is no better gift than your love. Take a homeless couple or a homeless person to lunch and get to know them.

Give Someone a ride: Yes, this may include picking up hitchhikers. People won't pick up hitchhikers out of fear. God teaches fear not and often hitchhikers are just someone traveling or someone in need. If your Christianity is sincere you should be ready to die as Christ died for you. If a hitchhiker kills you (which is unlikely) then so be it, you get to go to heaven and be with the Lord.

Caring for someone is the best gift you can give someone, whether it's a relative, friend, neighbor or stranger. A warm blanket on a cold night and a hot bowl of soup is a great gift.

Jesus gave his life for you that He could offer to give you eternal life, but you must accept that gift. Will you accept Jesus Christ into your heart today? Just ask and you will receive Jesus gift of salvation. Salvation is the best gift you can receive, so ask Jesus into your heart today. Jesus loves You and wants you to be saved, repent of your sins, no matter how bad you are. Salvation depends on Jesus, not on you, you can't get good enough, there is no such thing as good enough, it was Jesus who gave His life for you, believe (trust) in Him today, there's no other way.

Today is Christmas, because we should give of ourselves today and everyday, Today is thanksgiving because we should be thankful today and every day.