A Christmas Message from the Owner
Merry Christmas!
I know at this point I’ve gotten a couple of emails saying “Jesus is the reason for the season,” which is catchy and rhymes but doesn’t really say anything of substance.
This season I have been pondering a passage from the Bible that doesn’t really seem to be a “Christmas” verse, but I think really speaks to the heart of what we do on Christmas.
Did you know that in giving gifts to each other, we are imitating Christ? Ephesians 4:8 says, “When He ascended on high He led a host of captives, and He gave gifts to men.”
Many people would point to this passage and say it’s talking about the gift of Salvation that Jesus’ death offers us, which isn’t a very “Christmas-y” theme. But I’d take a different view – the verse says GIFTS – that’s a plural.
But just what ARE these gifts the Bible talking about then?
These gifts are skills, abilities, and resources that we can use to make this world a better place to live. He gives us gifts that enable us to bless others.
It’s in our very nature to give gifts.
Genesis says that God made us in his image – or to be similar to Him. Because it’s in His nature to give gifts, it’s hardwired into us to do the same. We can find joy and a piece of our identity in developing the gifts that God has given to us and using those gifts to give to others!
God’s gifts are ALWAYS good… although they may not feel like it at the time. I’ve received presents in the past that I wasn’t too excited about. The kind of present where you force a smile and a “thanks” but aren’t sure why the person gave it to you (or what you’re supposed to do with it). Have you ever felt that way before?
Sometimes there are things in our lives that we question God on – cause sometimes gifts don’t really feel like gifts. They feel like burdens.
We are here to help carry each other’s burdens. The Bible says it’s better to give than to receive. If you simply need someone to help you shoulder the weight this year, please reach out. If you’re in the area, stop on by. We don’t have all the answers, but we can give the gift of prayer and listening.
I know what you’re thinking… wait, aren’t you a kitchen store? Yes. Absolutely. And we’ve been blessed by so many of you that have chosen to purchase Christmas gifts from us. But that’s not our purpose for being on earth. It’s to spread Christ’s love, share our gifts, and help you to develop the gifts you’ve been given.
This Christmas season, take a moment to appreciate – you have been given gifts and talents that are unique to you! Recognize that we are all imitating Christ when we turn around and give good gifts to those around us.
This Christmas let’s all give generously because we have a generous Father!
Have a blessed Christmas,
Josiah Kooi
P.S. Paul says in a different place that every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Lights... Isn't that so amazing? That the God of the universe - who made the stars - cares about each one of us enough to give us special gifts?