Monday, December 3, 2007

Is God Like Santa Claus?


Recently we asked our children to create a Christmas wish list so we would have an idea as to where to start & what to buy. After each named a few things they would like to get for Christmas we then knew it was on and we began to prepare for the BIG DAY of shopping for our kids. Each day my son came to me with new things he wanted to add to his list, some things he had never mentioned and some things I don't even have. I realized his perception of "getting Christmas gifts" was way out of balance. Almost expecting, demanding & asking over & over again was he going to "GET IT?" It kinda took some of the joy out of wanting to provide the things I knew he wanted. We had to talk it out & cover things like appreciation, selfishness, perspective & balance. Big words & thoughts for a little guy. Finally we came together on the same wave link and put his mind to rest. Narrowing down his wish list to reality.

I then had to spend time with my Heavenly Father & work out the right perspective on some things I had been asking for, almost demanding, asking over & over again. I had to repent, work on my attitude of gratitude and realize we cannot treat God like Santa Claus, come to him with our wish list and them expect it just because. We have to trust His Sovereignty, His will, His Heart & Hand. Grateful for what He's already provided & understanding anything we receive or don't receive is Father filtered. Knowing He desires to give us good gifts & has already blessed us in so many ways.

Today we went shopping for our kids, what a great time, knowing you're getting things they desire and will bring them happiness & joy! With each purchase it brought delight & satisfaction. Can't wait for Christmas morning to share in the happiness of them receiving the special desires of their heart. Again my mind goes to God, "If we being evil know how to give good gifts to our children how much more does God desire to give gifts to his children." So yes, God is like Santa Claus only better. Better because He has the ability to provide & bless us but the wisdom to give us not only what we ask for but what we need.

On Christmas morning I will relish in the moment & thank God I get to see the faces of those I love receiving what they ask for. Remembering that God knows my desires even before I ask them & has already provided everything I need. So this year I wish you a Merry Christmas & remember to not treat God like Santa Claus. God will be there to guide, provide & protect long after Santa & his eight little reindeer have gone. Each day, each gift is to be received with the right perspective, what it is, a GIFT, so enjoy it the fullest!

1 comment:

Justin said...

Wow Pastor - this is so good...such a great perspective on receiving from God what we truly NEED and not just what we want. I feel like it's a mindset that should be firmly engrained already, yet I find within myself that I miss this point way too often. Thank you for your time in putting this out for us - please keep the life reminders coming!!

Blessings and love,
Justin