The 1st Package You Can't "Un-Wrap"

"We live in a, let it go mentality, especially this Christmas, BUT…when we change our attitude to “let it be” as we accept, obey, and move forward with the path God places before us…we’ll receive wonderful gifts from God – one’s you can’t wrap in a package." 

As you wrap the gifts for under the Christmas tree this year, remember, some of the best gifts come in small packages or in this case, don't require any packaging. These gifts can't be contained within any rectangular prism or cube, in fact, some are invisible.

But now, I am going to the One who has sent Me, 
and none of you ask Me, “Where are You going?”
I know that hearing news like this is overwhelming and sad. 
But the truth is that My departure will be a gift that will serve you well, 
because if I don’t leave, the great Helper will not come to your aid. 
When I leave, I will send Him to you."
John 16:5 - 7 VOICE

The initial Gift I planned to share today was the "Holy Spirit" but as I read some Bible verses, and in different translations, I realized this is a combo gift. We can't have one, without the other. The VOICE translation refers to Jesus' "departure", death on a cross for our sins, as a gift. Until reading this version, I only saw the sacrificial aspect of the resurrection, not the gift. 

Jesus died on the cross for your sins, my sins, and the sins of all men, women, and children. God sent His Only Son to be born, knowing He would face death on a cross. Jesus didn't run in the other direction or ask for God to lift Him to heaven, but instead, walked and near crawled, carrying His cross to Calvary. Jesus' words to us, "...My departure will be a gift". We see sacrifice, Jesus gave a gift. 

Have you received this gift?

He did this for a reason: so that for all eternity 
we will stand as a living testimony 
to the incredible riches of His grace and kindness 
that He freely gives to us by uniting us with Jesus the Anointed."
Ephesians 2:7 VOICE

We first have to let go of the "stuff" before we can honestly say, "let it be" and invite God into our lives. BUT once you do, you'll never be alone. Jesus' death was the first gift to you and the second is the Holy Spirit. 

If it weren't for the crucifixion, we wouldn't have the open communication line with God via the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit I planned to introduce as our first gift yet after some time reading my Bible, in order to receive this one, we first have to acknowledge and accept God as our Savior. 

The Holy Spirit is the tool you need. He will lead, direct, listen and carry your requests to God. This conversation and communication is also known as prayer. As you pray, walk and enjoy the snow...sing a song. What is your favorite Christmas carol?