In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs.
Hebrews 1:1-4
No Exchanges, No Returns
In many places December 26 has become one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Yesterday, looking for deeply discounted holiday items and armed with gift cards received over the weekend, masses of people headed to their favorite stores. As a result, numerous sources list December 26 among the top five busiest shopping days of the year. Yet, December 26 is nowhere to be found on the lists of top ten biggest shopping days when it comes to retail sales.
Why? Some of the shoppers are looking for good deals on discounted merchandise. Others have gift cards they want to use. A significant part of the shopping traffic, however, is made up of people who are looking to exchange or return gifts they received this Christmas. For whatever reason they have determined that these gifts are not what they need or want. I pray that for you Jesus is not one of those gifts.
Jesus is the perfect gift, superior even to having a host of angels at your beck and call. What an amazing gift! God sent his Son, true God from all eternity, Creator of the universe, powerful Owner and Sustainer of all things to reveal his word and will to us, and to purify us from the sins that condemn us. God has given us a gift beyond compare in Jesus!
Who would want to exchange this gift for something perceived to be more fitting or stylish? Who would want to return this gift as if it had no meaning or value? That is the response of unbelief.
Rather than considering an exchange or return—as you hear again God's Word describing this precious gift—may your faith be strengthened, knowing that Jesus has already exchanged his life for yours, and Jesus has already returned to the right hand of his Father where he lives and reigns on your behalf.
Of course, there will be one more return of significance, when Jesus comes again to take you to the eternal home he has prepared for all his faithful people. May this too fill you with peace and hope and joy.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, strengthen me through your word, that I may ever cling to you. I truly need nothing more. Amen.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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