When we consider giving gifts of love, do we think of pretty packages to go under tree or do we consider what Jesus would give; things like sharing gift of salvation, meeting a need of heart, reaching lost sheep? And, didn't He say that there would always be poor among us?

So, if it is Jesus' birth we're celebrating, shouldn't our gifts be to Jesus or on behalf of Jesus? If such a needed gift would come in a package, so be it. But, with Jesus present, there would never be a Christmas gathering to show off ‘our’ service.

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 1 Peter 1:18-19

Satan has used this passage to rob us of a victorious life. Any happiness you see is likely just a cover.

It is often thought we're to patiently endure whatever horrible things that come our way, to be victims of our circumstance. The only blessings we expect to see are in life to come.

Occasionally, I've heard well intended Christians say, "We're never going to get through trials of this life until we get to Heaven."

I have this urge to respond, "Don't say that! IT ISN'T TRUE!" But, I also understand that they wouldn't say it except they don't know.