I’m typically wrapping gifts at the last minute, frantically stretching the final pieces of wrapping paper and using tiny bits of tape to make it all hold together. I know I’m not alone; I’ve asked others what they do on Christmas Eve, and many have told me they stay up late into the night wrapping presents.
There’s a special joy in the wrapping process. In those moments, I go over my list, consider each recipient, and hope that the gift will be a perfect fit. I truly enjoy giving gifts, but it is often challenging. I’ve come to terms with the fact that some gifts might end up tucked away in closets and eventually regifted. Surely, that happens at least occasionally, even in your home?
I’m not very particular about wrapping paper; sometimes, I simply buy what’s on sale. I’ve attempted to coordinate the colors of the wrapping paper for family gifts, but there’s always that one awkward package that doesn’t fit the color scheme. I’m also not the best at wrapping presents. I gave up on bows years ago. Although my wrapping skills may not reflect the thought and care I put into selecting the gifts, I hope they tangibly convey my love for each recipient.
Reflection
As I wrapped presents tonight, I thought about how the scripture says, “The Lord wraps himself in light as with a garment” (Ps 104:2). Our God, our King is robed in majesty, holiness, and glory. And yet, at Christmas, we see him wrapped in humility, in strips of cloth, simple, lacking in nobility. God takes on flesh, the flesh of a baby, entering our messy world so that He can be our Kinsman-Redeemer. Vulnerable, helpless, needy, dependent on the very humans He created.
The Christmas babe – no wrapping paper needed. No ribbon, bow, no fluff. Just flesh. Emmanuel, God pitching His tent among us, to be one with us. The ultimate gift …
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