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The Art of Giving

Much is said this season about who is giving for whom, or what is expected from whom...

But really, what are we saying with these gifts? Are they not merely symbols of our affection for each other? Tangible gifts are sacred and beautiful expressions of one's admiration, respect, and love. The wise men offered gifts to the Babe of Bethlehem of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, all of which were considered to be very valuable in their own right. But was not the exceptional value of the item enhanced by the giver's sacrifice to bring them? What of the time spent selecting the gift? Is not that more precious than the actual gift itself?

The idea of someone carefully selecting something for a loved one, as an expression of that love, is truly what Christmas giving is all about. The thought really is what counts, and we should think of each other as we give and receive gifts. They truly come from the heart and soul of the giver, who has given of him or herself in an effort to please us.

1 Thessalonians 3:9 -

For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;...

and verse 12

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you.

Christ is the great Gift of our Father in Heaven for us, for our salvation and joy and peace. He sent His Son, our precious Saviour, to live, and die, and live again for us. Christ, Himself, gave the gift of His own life - both in living, and in dying, and in living again - for us. And the manifestation and guidance and companionship of the Holy Ghost is referred to as the Gift of the Holy Ghost, conferred upon all who are baptized and worthy members of the Church. Thus God gives us what we need, want, and desire.

This is the pattern we should all follow. This is the spirit in which we should give and receive gifts, remembering always that the greatest gift is our love. Christ said that there is no greater love than to give up one's life for another. I believe that this does not necessarily mean dying for someone, but rather living for someone (or for many) in a life of service and selfless devotion. In so doing, we emulate the Savior Himself.

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