There is a cartoon that shows Jesus sitting in a big chair with a little boy on his lap. Jesus says, “How about if instead of giving you everything you think you want for Christmas I give you what you need?” (1) I find that a fascinating question. What if Jesus gives me what I need and not what I want, or even think I need?
As we approach Christmas Day I challenge you to ponder this great “What if?” Do an honest self-assessment – if you and Jesus were alone together what would He say you need? I have a hunch that most of us, when we’re honest with ourselves, know the answer. But whether or not we do, the issue is “Do we dare ask Jesus to give us what we need?” Are we convinced He knows best? Are we willing to accept it?
I believe Jesus does know best. He always knows best. Think about it. If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent an educator. If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent an economist. If our greatest need had been pleasure, God would have sent an entertainer. If our greatest need had been security, God would have sent a bodyguard. If our greatest need had been health, God would have sent a doctor. If our greatest need had been companionship, God would have sent perfect mates. But our greatest need was forgiveness, so God sent a Savior. “You shall call his name Jesus, for He will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). (2)
Jesus always knows best. Do you really want to ask Him to give you what you need? Even if it hurts? Even if it means letting go of something – someone – you truly prize? Even if it means giving up your dream? Even if it means radically changing a habit or altering your lifestyle? Even if it means a new vocation? Even if it means losing money, prestige, or status? I flinch as I write these words; it’s far easier to write them than to embrace with a resounding ‘Yes.’ It’s hard to release everything to Jesus.
The bottom line is that we can cling to and try to keep what is dearest to us, or we can release everything to Gold and ask Him to give us what is best. As Martha Snell Nicholson has penned:
“One by one He took them from me, the things I valued most,
Until I was empty handed; Every glittering toy was lost.
And I walked earth’s highways, grieving, In my rags and poverty.
Till I heard His voice inviting, “Lift those empty hands to Me!”
So I held my hands towards Heaven, And He filled them with a store
Of his own transcendent riches Till they could contain no more.
And at last I comprehended With my stupid mind and dull, That God Could not pour His riches Into hands already full.” (3)
What if…?
- Reverend Fun, www.reverendfun.com
- When the Going Gets Tough…, Rev. Curry Pikkaart, Westbow Press, p. 113 –For more information visit www.pastorcurry.com
- http://www.cavaliersonly.com/poetry_by_christian_poets_of_the_past/poetry_by_martha_snell_nicholson