“God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:8-10 (NLT)

A Gift For Jesus

Preparing for Thanksgiving, I was reflecting on more things to be thankful for than paper and ink in my printer. I am thankful to be a year older, hopefully wiser, and deeply grateful for each day God allows. I am profoundly thankful for Jesus and the knowledge that our family and our extended family belong to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Ephesians 2:8-10 tells us that we have been saved through believing and trusting Christ. Even the ability to trust is a gift from God, not our own doing. He gave us the gift of new life in Jesus Christ.We are God’s masterpiece. Insert your name: “_____ is God’s masterpiece.”

Inside each Dove dark chocolate square is a quote. Mine was, “Don’t talk about it, BE ABOUT IT.” Ok, there is my gift to Jesus! No, no, no, not to eat chocolate squares, although…no…NO—but to be about His business: doing good, helping others just like He planned for us long ago. Our mission field is right where He has planted us.

What Christmas “gift” can I give to Jesus, you ask? Glad you asked! Surrender! Let Jesus be the center and LORD of our life. Stick a bow on your head and say, “Here I am, Jesus, use me!” Give Jesus a birthday present: yourself. We are not guaranteed tomorrow or even our next breath, so there is no time like the “present!” The problems and challenges will “keep a’comin”, but Jesus will carry you through.

The last Dove chocolate square I chose said: “There is always time to love” . Tell someone each day that you love them. Those could be the last words on earth they hear from you. Now, find someone and tell them you love them. Pass it on!

“Jesus, You gave us the very best gift, the gift of You. I will thank You for all eternity because of Your great sacrifice. Happy Birthday, Jesus—we celebrate You.”