An Unmerited Gift

During the past several months, I have been doing a lot of reading.  One book that I decided to re-read is by Gary Chapman, The Five Love Languages for Singles. I decided to re-read it because I have been spending more time getting to know myself better. I’ve had more time to think, reflect, and lean into what God is speaking to me. He still speaks even during a pandemic.

By nature, I am a learner. I love learning and finding out more information, especially as it pertains to my spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health. I want to grow and develop in all areas of my life. In order to do this, I thought that I may need to review the five love languages and learn how my personality type expresses and receives unconditional love. I needed to learn the art of communication. I don’t know about you, but I need to improve in this area. 

The five love languages that are discussed in Gary Chapman’s book are words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, quality time, and physical touch. As I was reading and turning each page, I tried to connect with the words on the page. The author defines each love language and then gives examples of each.

 When I got to the chapter that discussed the love language of “gifts,” I started thinking about my life and my personality. I have always been someone who likes to give and receive gifts. I especially like to give and receive gifts “just because.” It doesn’t have to be a special time of the year for me, a giver. I just enjoy giving and receiving gifts.

 After I finished reading the book, I took the five love languages profile assessment that is located in the back of the book. I wanted to find out my secondary love language as well. According to my profile score, my primary love language is “gifts” and my secondary love language is “acts of service.” 

As I closed the book, I thought about the word “gift.” A gift can be defined as a present, a sacrifice, anything given voluntarily; at no cost. This is exactly what God did when He gave us the gift of His Son Jesus Christ. John 3:16 reminds us for God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

In Luke 2:6 and 11 we find the following words…

V.6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn.

V. 11 For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

What a wonderful gift from God our Father. As we enjoy the many gifts that we have gotten this year, let us be reminded of the wonderful unmerited gift of Jesus Christ and the gift of salvation. Immanuel. God is with US!

JOY TO THE WORLD THE LORD HAS COME!

How will you share this amazing gift with others?