The Five Gifts of Christmas - Gift Four: The Gift of Grace

Sometimes, during the frenzy of gift giving over the Christmas holidays, we find ourselves the recipient of an unexpected gift from an unexpected source. How many of us, instead of receiving the gift with gratitude and thanks, immediately become uncomfortable? We'll say things like: "Oh, you shouldn't have," or, "but I didn't get you anything." If the gift turns out to be something we've wanted badly, or that demonstrates the gift givers love and thoughtfulness towards us, that little voice inside will start pushing those buttons that tell us we're not worthy of it, that we don't deserve it because we didn't do anything to earn it. 

This week's gift is one that comes to you with no strings attached. You don't have to do anything to earn it, and you don't have to prove your worthiness to receive it. It is the Gift of Grace. It is the divine expression of love from The Creator to the Creation. It is the assurance that you are loved, that you matter, that you are never alone, and that there is nothing you can do to lose it. It is knowing that you are supported in both your triumphs and your tragedies, and that you don't have to be from any particular religious tradition or ethnic background to receive it. It is the gift that keeps on giving, and giving, and giving, with no end in sight. It never needs a refill, a battery or a recharge. Grace is forever. 

As we celebrate the birth of the One who demonstrated grace in all it's amazing disguises, I wish you all a holiday filled with the love, peace and joy. Pass it on. That's Grace in action!

And so it is.