We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion – how can God’s love be in that person?

~ 1 John 3:16-17 NASB ~

This time of year brings joy and laughter for many reasons. For children, it is exciting because it means new toys and clothes. For us adults, it is a time of reflection, getting together with family, and (if blessed to do so) taking off from work for a few weeks. But for others, this time of year brings sadness and highlights them being alone and less fortunate.

A few years ago, while driving home from work. I encountered a homeless man while stopped at a red light. He wore a tattered, brown trench coat and dusty black sweatpants. From the looks of him, he appeared to be handicapped as well. I began to see him more consistently. I began to give him a dollar or two when I traveled that way. This day around Christmas, I felt the Holy Spirit tell me to ask him his name. I obeyed. One thing led to another, and I told him I was going to bring him some items for him to have. What stood out was that he had one foot covered in newspaper clippings wrapped with rubber bands; on the other, he wore a cardboard box. Immediately, I asked him what size he wore in shoes and where did he stay? He obliged and gave me an address. I was so excited and went straight home and believed the Lord had told me to put a package together for this man. I still remember what I gave him – three bags of chips, three peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, a jacket I barely wore, and a pair of black Jordans. I was elated to bless someone who appeared to be in need

I jumped back in my SUV and headed to the address he had given. When I turned on the street, I was a bit confused because the house address he provided was nonexistent. I thought I misunderstood what he said for a second, and then I saw him. However, “the him” I saw was almost unrecognizable. The person I saw with the unkept brown trench coat, black sweatpants, and distinct shuffle was now moving with a more pronounced stride. He had a baby blue shirt, blue jean shorts with a small tear in the left pocket, with a new pair of grey New Balance on his feet. I was shocked and confused. This scenario did not end as I thought. And for a while, I asked the Lord where the purpose was. It tested my heart’s condition to see if I was giving with the right intentions and God’s love. He took the items I brought for him ashamed, but I genuinely believe it was not about him… but me. I never saw him again.

1 John gives us a blueprint of a true example of selfless love in one sentence. “We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us” (16). This scripture is a perfect depiction of Agape’ or unconditional love. Strong’s dictionary of Bible Words defines Agape’ as this, Christian love, whether exercised toward the brethren or toward men generally. It is not an impulse from the feelings; it does not always run with the natural inclinations, nor does it spend itself only upon those for whom some affinity is discovered. In short, real love expresses action, not just a feeling. And Christ showed the world love in motion when he took on our sin. I am thankful for His love for me daily. When I reflect – to be honest, it overwhelms me at times. Because when I see those that are less fortunate or perhaps have lost a loved one, I may not always take a moment to think about how I can show love for another human, but Christ did. That is so powerful to me. Love in action is the gift that we all can give during this season. Jesus gave it all up for us so let us consider what we can provide for someone else.  

For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord.

~ 2 Corinthians 8:5 NASB ~

Apostle John wants us to know without a doubt what it means to live as a Child of God and how we, as his Children, should love one another. It requires two words selfless and sacrifice. We have a choice to make. Here is a closing thought. The gift of giving is not contingent upon whether the person we decide to give to is in need; it is based on our heart’s condition.

During this season, will you represent as a child of God? Do you know someone that is in need? If so, what are you willing to give up for them?

Lord, thank you for the person reading this at this very moment. Reveal to them someone who is in need of your love and allow them to be a blessing and share the Gift in Giving. Thank you for your son, Jesus Christ, loving us enough to show in Action. Help us to imitate and show others in our community, workspaces, and the World the gift that you give so freely – If we would just embrace it. Thank you for this Christmas season and thank you again for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.