Christmas and the 'Gift"

 We probably all can remember 'Christmas Day.' Christmas trees, gifts around the tree, and the reminder of Jesus birthday. The older I realize that I had always thought of Christ being the greatest gift, but turly "I never accepted the Gift." The day was full of eating, presents, fellowshipping and gluttony. As soon as the day was over, it was over and I went about my business as usual.
 Today Christmas is a reminder to me more than anything. A reminder that I need to 'Put on' and 'Accept' the wonderful gift that lies before both you and I.Let me share a few scriptures with you all that will help us to understand what I am talking about:
Romans 13:14 says this "Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful flesh." In Galatians 3:26-27 we read "You are all sons of God through Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ."
 These passages really send a message to myself. Think about this, "Have you ever received a gift that you did not like, and then, never put it on?" I have. The giver never knew that you did not like it and you never truly accepted it within. A gift is not about receiving it, but using it. The same applies with us and the gift that God has given us, and the gift from Jesus through the cross. I was 36 years old before I truly 'Accepted the gift.' I always thought that I had because of what others told me. Today I 'Clothe' myself with Christ daily. I put on the gift of Christ daily. I no longer chase after things that money can buy, because there is not enough money in the entire universe that could purchase the gift that only Christ can give. By receiving the gift we must use the gift. We use it by allowing Christ to manifest Himself throughout our daily lives. We will be loving others, praying for others and serving others. We will be like Him here on earth. If we truly accept the 'Gift' then we give our all just as He gave His all while here on earth in death and His resurrection. Are you ready to 'Accept' the gift? Are you ready to use the gift? It is the best gift that we can ever receive and it is one that we can choose each and everyday of our lives. Merry Christmas!