Hating the Gift-giver
God is such a loving Father, He always makes sure He gives good gifts! The best gift that He has ever given is His son Jesus Christ. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. – St. John 3:16. He gave this gift in the womb of Mary, who then birthed Him and placed Him in a manger. This brought great joy to the heavens, but not everyone was happy about it.
During that time there was great sorrow in Bethlehem. Herod the Great, who was by no means great in God’s eyes, commissioned that all the young boys age two (2) and under, should be executed. He had heard news that the King of the Jews had been born, and hence He wanted Jesus exterminated. This was a terrible time. The scripture describes it as a time that Rachel (the wife of Israel, the mother of all Israelites, and hence represents all mothers in Israel) could not be comforted. But what sparked it all? Jealousy and fear!
King Herod had feared that this new King would have overthrown him. He feared losing the position he held. With these thoughts he saw Jesus as a threat. Have you ever been jealous? Jealousy comes from a fear of losing one’s uniqueness or a desire to be unique. It is actually hatred of God, because it is God who is in control of every aspect of your life. He raises up kingdoms and He tears them down. He has the ability to take something from you or ensure you never ever get it. Therefore, when you feel as if you are jealous of people, and things – it is actually your hate of God’s perfect will being executed in your life.
Look where jealousy and fear took King Herod. It caused Him to destroy almost all of a generation. If jealousy is in us, we will spew the same evil. It comes with a destructive quality. Whatever it is you are jealous of becomes your focus, and you will destroy people, places, and things just to secure it. Some say mean things, some withdraw themselves from friends; some go into depression and others take physical action. Whatever the behavior, know that where jealousy exists, there is also the execution of our judgement.
Let us ensure that in this Christmas season our hearts are pure. Let us guard our hearts against jealousy knowing that our heavenly Father loves us and allows us to experience those things that are necessary for our good. Do not walk in hatred of God because He is trying to save your soul. Trust Him instead, and learn to say in your heart – the Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away.
So if in this season you cannot afford to buy all the gifts your kids ask for, and your decorations don’t look like your neighbour’s, you didn't get gifts like your friend's or even as you reminisce a loss at this time - don’t be depressed. Instead, thank the Lord that even in this He is working it all for your good. Though you may not have material wealth like others, you have the promise that He will never leave you nor forsake you. Is there a better gift for you?