“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16).
What are you going to give Christ this Christmas? This question will be repeated in many pulpits and church services this Christmas. And usually, people get asked to give to God their obedience. Whilst this is true and necessary, it is only a partial answer. Your obedience is not the only gift you can give to Christ this season. You can also give Christ the gift of grace. This gift is not just about receiving God’s forgiveness but also about becoming vulnerable and offering your imperfect and fragile self to God.
In one of the most powerful Christmas services I attended, the pastor asked people to give Christ as a gift their pain, bad habits, anxieties, and fears. Surprisingly, these are some of the most beautiful gifts we could offer Christ this season. In the grace of God, we do not need to hide our vulnerable and weak selves. Instead, we can offer them to him as a gift, and He will gladly receive them and transform them. But you have to become vulnerable; you have to come out of hiding from the bushes like Adam and Eve and allow Christ to clothe you with his robe of forgiveness, strength and the love that covers a multitude of sins.
So give your weak self and even ugly side to God this Christmas. He is waiting for you, and he is not afraid. Come out of hiding and give all yourself to God, including your dark side. This will be a beautiful gift to God this season!
It is beautiful because it is redeemable, because of Lord makes beauty out of our ashes.