Have you heard the phrase, “It’s giving…”? If you’ve spent any time around teenagers or college students, you probably have. It’s a newer way to say, “This is giving off a certain vibe.” And if you’re like me, you’ve probably misused it once or twice—maybe on purpose—to coax a laugh or an eye roll out of your kids.
For example, when my spouse prepares an amazing holiday meal, I might say, “Wow, babe, it’s giving… Gordon Ramsay!” Or when a Cleveland Browns fan, such as myself, declares, “Next year is our year,” one might say, “It’s giving… delusional.”
If we were to walk the streets of New York City this time of year, standing in Rockefeller Plaza beneath the towering tree, surrounded by sparkling lights and festive music. You could say, “It’s giving Christmas.”
While we are on the subject, what makes you think, “It’s giving Christmas”?
I think of the intoxicating aroma of Christmas cookies lofting through the air on cold December nights at 7935 Brookwood Drive (my childhood home). I think of a steady flurry of snow falling outside as we sit beside a toasty, crackling fire – “Home Alone” playing on the tv in the background.
But beyond all the traditions and nostalgia, when I think of Christmas, I think, “It’s giving… something deeper.” It’s giving hope. It’s giving love. And maybe most of all… It’s giving joy.
After all, isn’t joy the very essence of Christmas? “Joy to the World” is more than a carol—it’s a proclamation that started on a starry night in a quiet little town called Bethlehem. Picture it: a humble town with only 300 residents, the last place you would expect the Savior of the world to appear. But this is where the Angels made an announcement for the ages:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
Can you imagine how remarkable this scene had to be?! No wonder the Angel had to tell them “do not be afraid!” But here’s the point. Whenever Jesus shows up, joy shows up too. In fact, it’s impossible to encounter Jesus and not experience joy.
And the joy of Christmas isn’t the kind the world gives. It’s not tied to whether we aced every exam during finals week, received the perfect gift, or have our lives perfectly together. True joy comes from a deeper source. As Psalm 16:11 says, “In Your presence, there is fullness of joy.”
Christmas presents are great. But it’s really all about Christmas presence. That’s the greatest gift of all. God with us, Immanuel. And with that reality comes joy that can change everything.
As we celebrate the season of giving, it all points to one monumental truth:
“God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” (John 3:16)
Yes, Christmas is giving peace, love, hope and joy. But most of all, Christmas is giving Jesus.
Wrapped in swaddling clothes, laid in a manger, God’s love for humanity was gift-wrapped in the form of His Son.
I pray that truth lives big in your hearts this holiday season,
Merry Christmas!
