‘God is a generous and good father, and his gifts are the best thing to ask for this Christmas.’

Writer Hope Bonarcher reflects on the heart of Christmas beyond lights and wish-lists. She reminds us that this season points to a God who still pours out his Spirit and his gifts today.

It’s Christmastime again. Lights are being strung, trees baubbled, familiar reverent tunes comfort from the radio. And then, there’s the gifts. My kids have begun hinting at their Christmas wish-lists. My teenager, for one, has created an online registry, something like for wedding gifts! I’m too nervous to look yet. As Christians, celebrating the greatest gift the world’s ever received and paying it forward with the same heart of lovingkindness God had, is the heart of the season.

But God is so beautiful, bountiful, and benevolent, he didn’t just stop there. The baby Jesus grew into Calvary’s sacrificial servant, rose on the third day and shortly after, into heaven. From there, he poured out his Spirit, along with spiritual gifts to comfort, encourage and strengthen us here on earth as we await his return.