The Most Important JourneySample

Day 16

By Tara Banks

The Greatest Gift

One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They tell of the power of your awesome works—and I will proclaim your great deeds. ~ Psalm 145:4-6 (NIV)

When I was growing up, my mother was the absolute champion at making our birthdays not only a day to remember but an event for our entire family. Still, to this day, she is enthusiastic about birthdays and encourages the shared family celebration to last at least a week. I have often told my husband and my boys that if they want to celebrate my birthday for an entire month as a family, I would not be opposed. After all, I get it honest.

While I’ve been the recipient of gifts from the simple to the extravagant, I’ve learned that the gifts that mean the most are those that can be shared with those you love. One of the most generous gifts anyone can give is simply the gift of celebrating someone and encouraging others to do the same. It conveys gratitude, joy, and appreciation for that person.

In our relationship with the Lord, remembering and recounting what he has done expresses our devotion to him and appreciation for what he has done. Encouraging others to notice his “wonderful works” and “great deeds” not only honors the Lord, but in a beautiful turn of events, is a gift given back to us—it increases our faith the more we share it.

I cannot think of anything more worthy of celebration than the mighty act of God sending his only son, Jesus, to earth to be with us. I also cannot think of anything more important for my children and those around me to hear.

By passing along the stories of his goodness and how he has rescued me, I can help ensure that, from one generation to the next, the celebration of the Lord continues. This Advent season, share what he has done in your life. Truly there is no greater gift we can give to those we love than to share that God loves us and is Emmanuel, God with us.

Reflect: How are you purposefully passing along the wonderful work and great deeds of the Lord from one generation to the next this Christmas season?