The Backwards Birthday

Target and Walmart had Christmas displays up before Thanksgiving. Then we had Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday.  Now there's the rush of the final shopping days before the holiday.  Christmas is an economic engine.  Gift-giving is big business.  
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I’ve always found this funny.  It’s Jesus’ birthday, and we give each other presents. 

It would be a wild scenario if it was my birthday, and everyone showed up to the party with presents for each other but not me.  "Um, do we know why we're here?"  It’s like a backwards birthday.  The birthday boy shows up and we all celebrate by doing things for ourselves.  

At this time of year the Birthday Boy often gets ignored.  Or he gets our apathy, ignorance, and a passing glance.  And we get gifts.  How funny, but how appropriate.  This was his mission.  He arrived as the incarnate Son of God to give all the gifts - love, forgiveness, deliverance, salvation.  We give nothing.  He is entirely gracious.  

My point is not that all the presents under the tree need Jesus’ name on them.  After all, he's hard to buy for.  What do you get the King of Kings?  There's nothing you can do to earn or deserve his favor.  Nonetheless, he desires a response.  It's the rhythm of the Christian life: receive and respond.  He doesn’t want a package or a toy.  He wants you.  

Could you respond like Jesus' mother?  She responded to an angel's preposterous birth announcement with simple faith.  "Let it be to me as you have spoken."  In other word, "Lord, whatever you want."  

We often tell what we want for Christmas.  This year, ask Jesus what he wants.  "Thy will be done."  Then make yourself available.  Obedient.  Faithful.  Humble.  Selfless.  Say to the Birthday Boy, "Whatever you want."

Jesus, you are the all-surpassing gift.  In response for what you've given, I ask, "What do you want?"  Not my will, but yours be done.  Everything I have is not enough, but it's all I've got.  Receive my humble praise.  Amen.