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Most Valuable Gifts
In the Word
"And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God"Β (Micah 6:8b).
Of the Word
"What do you want for Christmas?" A child may answer with the name of the latest game or toy. Each of us might answer the question with a list of things we've had our eye on as well. It's a common question asked during the holidays, but rarely is the question addressed to God. Why not? After all, He has an answer for us!
Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the Old Testament prophet Micah spoke of the gifts God wants from us, His beloved people. He asks us for gifts of the heart, given to Him when we do what is right: showing kindness in word and action; living lives of humility and service. These gifts require no money, no ribbons, and no wrapping, only a Spirit-filled longing to bring Him what He desires most.
What does God want for Christmas? He wants our worship and prayers, our time and abilities, our compassion for others. Those are the gifts He receives with a warm smile and an outstretched hand β and not just at Christmas, but all year long.
Walking with my Lord
Lord, help me to walk humbly with You and to live as Your child. Amen.
Mustard Seed: The Joy of Christmas. 7/32 Author: Patricia Mitchell. Β©2011 Lutheran Womenβs Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from The HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION Copyright Β© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
