“For God so loved the world, that He gave...”  

- John 3:16

In the hustle of the holidays, it is easy to miss what is central: that God came to be with us. The Scriptures read “Christ with us,” Jesus is the incarnate God.

At the heart of the incarnation is one word: generosity. No phrase captures the essence of the gospel narrative better than this phrase: “For God so loved the world, that he GAVE...” (John 3:16, emphasis added).

God gave—it's who He is. Generosity finds its genesis in God; God is the ultimate giver.

Let me ask you, are you generous? Does a generous spirit mark your life? Do those in your home know what it means to be generous?

Many of us are drowning in the waters of consumption and consumerism that now embody the Holidays. Swimming upstream, I wonder how much we are learning about generosity.

What if your home became a training ground for generosity this holiday season—a place where Christmas lights weren't the only thing on display? What if your home served as a window into the generous heart of God?

Let me implore you this year—start a new tradition in your home—a tradition that marks the true spirit of Christmas. Let's use this holiday season to teach our loved ones how to BE GENEROUS.

Today’s Reflection & Action:

Everything is a good gift from the Father above. Our problem is that we tend to elevate the gifts above the Giver of gifts... Where in your life have you done this? Where have you “exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator?” (Ro. 1:25)

It's better to give than to receive. Create a Christmas plan where you and your family focus more on the Savior and less on the stuff.

Faithfully,
Pastor Chris

Paper Sunday is blessed to collaborate with Chris Harper on this Advent Devotional Series.

Chris Harper is a speaker, writer, and disciple-maker. Chris is President of 252Edu, a consulting firm based in Dallas, Texas. Chris serves schools, churches, and non-profits by helping them "grow in wisdom, favor and stature with God and man.”

When not taking ground for King Jesus, you can find Chris on the basketball court playing a pick-up game. Chris is a sneakerhead, an avid reader, and loves a good cheeseburger. You can follow him @252consulting on Instagram.