Tuesday is Christmas day. For many it is the time that the world has set aside to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Jesus was born into our world and lived a perfect life. He died for the sins of mankind on a cross some thirty-three years later. We are still talking about Him after almost 2,000 years.

But for many this time of the year has been commercialized. Retailers are trying to get everyone to purchase their products. Children are excited as they will receive presents. Some are looking forward to exchanging gifts with others, and many already have. What does this day hold for you?

I’m sure that some will be elated at the things they receive. The happiness will show forth as they smile with a huge grin and begin to use their gift.

But others may be disappointed. Perhaps because they did not receive the gift they desired. They had dropped every hint of the item they wanted and yet were denied the pleasure of that gift. It may have been denied because it cost too much. Or it may have been denied because it would harm and not help the one who desired it. Whatever the reason, the disappointment shows.

As a child it can be a difficult time of the year. As an adult it can also be a difficult time because we cannot give the gifts we desire to give. Therefore, disappointment happens.

If this describes you this year then consider this. The greatest gift we will ever give to anyone is the love that we have for them. We are called upon to love God and our fellow man, Matthew 22. As much as we would like to give expensive gifts, the love we offer to others is always more outstanding. You can give the most expensive gift in the world and if there is no love then what does it matter?

We need to think of the One who gave so much so that we could have our salvation. Jesus loved ME so much that He went to the cross for me. If I never get another thing I can know that He loves me with a love that is indescribable. And He loves you that much also.

So if you are disappointed about what you did not receive as gifts this year, take the time to think of what you do have. And when you do how can anything but happiness be in your life?