Christmas: The Greatest Giftنموونە

December rolled around, and with it came brisk air, bright lights, and eager anticipation. It was almost Christmas in Buffalo, and the only thing missing at my workplace was old St. Nick.

For the holiday party, my coworkers wanted a Santa Claus, and they knew just the man for the role: Me.

I reluctantly agreed.

It’s one thing to be Santa in a mall where kids see you as a hero. But on a college campus? Yikes!

I was so embarrassed and annoyed with my coworkers, but when it came time to put on the costume, none of that mattered anymore. I was no longer Thomas Rodrigues. I was Santa. And Santa isn’t bitter. Santa doesn’t think he’s too cool to be Santa. Santa is jolly. Santa is generous. Santa is always up for the task.

For me to thrive, I had to forget I was Thomas and embrace the sweaty jacket and itchy beard as my own. That day, I became Santa Claus.

The Christian life is similar. In Colossians 3, Paul instructs us to put off the old way of living and put on the new. Why? Because that’s no longer who we are. We’re no longer wearing our old clothes of sin and brokenness. We’re “God’s chosen ones” and “holy and beloved by God.” By receiving, in faith, God’s greatest gift, Jesus, we receive a new nature.

God’s chosen ones don’t need to be controlled by evil desire. Beloved people don’t need to hold grudges. As Christians, we’re no longer “earthly,” but chosen, holy, and loved.

Go ahead — put that on!

Reflect

God tells us in His Word that if you are a follower of Jesus, you have been chosen by God Himself. He tells us that you are now holy, and you are His beloved.

Do you ever find yourself resistant to those truths? What part of being chosen, holy, and loved is hard for you to embrace?

The Holy Spirit helps us believe the truths in the Bible and empowers us to live them out. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what it looks like to “walk hand in hand” with Him.

Pray

Lord, will You help me believe what You say about me? You say I am holy, chosen, and beloved. Holy Spirit, will You walk with me each day and help me live like I am holy, chosen, and beloved? I want to put on my new nature and turn from my sin. I want to know You more, Jesus. Help me to seek You each day. Thank You for Your grace and power to walk in love.