John 3:16

Today's Scripture

God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son
 that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
-John 3:16 (NIV)

LIKE most people, I love gifts. I love to receive them, and I love to give them. I start getting excited about Christmas in September or even earlier. I can't wait to decide what I will give the members of my family. Will I make something or buy something for each person? Thinking about the gifts I will give my grandchildren is so much fun for me! I can't wait for them to open their gifts, and I love the way their faces light up when they like what I have given.

I wonder if that was how God felt when giving "his one and only Son." When Jesus was born, was God watching to see if we would be excited? Was God sad when we didn't seem to appreciate the gift of Jesus? I know I'm disappointed when my children or grandchildren don't like the gifts I give; but I'm thrilled when they love what I've picked out for them. I hope God is thrilled to see that I love Jesus and that I am happy for the gift God gave me.
No matter how great the gifts I give my children and grandchildren, nothing I give can come close to God's gift of Jesus. Beginning with my family, I want to tell those around me the good news of Jesus Christ so they can receive the best gift ever given. + +Susie Hoffmann (Ohio, USA)