Empty Handed No More

This advent you need to know two things about me.

1. I decorate my house with tape and paper.
2. I am a lousy gift-giver.

I decorate my house in “early-American” tape and paper – much to the surprise of visitors, and my forever accommodating family. Cards, verses, and quotes mark moments in time when God ministered to me through the kindness of others and I can’t seem to file these treasures away. Out comes the tape and the wall loses one more foot of white space.
For all my attention to words, I am not very good with things. I am a lousy housekeeper (I really am) and I am a lousy gift-giver. I’m not stingy, just routinely uninspired. Once in a while, however, inspiration and energy collide, and I am giddy with the joy of giving THE perfect gift to someone I love or someone God lays on my heart.
Imagine the heart of our Father right now. No doubt He is giddy with anticipation for the gifts He has for His children. He is THE Gift Giver of all time and His inspired generosity will take our breath away, if we let it.
The gift of Jesus comes with specially marked gifts for each of us.
A few years ago, in a particularly desperate time, someone sent me the sign “Take What You Need.” Below it were “rip off” tabs that said peace, patience, understanding, hope, freedom, courage. I loved it. The handmade sign spoke deeply to my heart. It reminded of everything God had for me.
This Advent we need to remember one thing about Jesus.

He is everything we need.

What do you need this Christmas?
Name it out loud, and ready your heart to receive.

That’s not all. There is Hope. Forgiveness. Joy. Passion. Purpose.
The list goes on.
Close your eyes.
Open your heart.
Visit the Bethlehem Babe, and receive.
Don’t walk away empty handed.

What are you asking Jesus for this Christmas?

First time here?