The Greatest Gift: Jesus, Our Messiah

Christmas is one of the most joyful seasons of the year. It’s a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, the greatest gift ever given. Over 2,000 years ago, God demonstrated His boundless love for humanity by sending His only Son into the world to save us. Jesus, Emmanuel—“God with us”—came to redeem us by taking our sin and the punishment we deserve for our sin upon Himself, enable us to walk through our lives in and through His strength, and to offer us eternal life. The beauty of this gift is that it’s freely given to us—although it cost Him His life. We did not deserve His loving, merciful, and gracious gift. Each Christmas, I’m reminded of how incredible this gift is, and I’m filled with gratitude for the blessings God continues to pour into my life.

Counting the Blessings of the Year

As I reflect on this past year, my heart is overwhelmed with thanksgiving for the countless ways God has shown His goodness. Just as He sent the gift of His Son, He has also brought many other blessings into my life, transforming me and drawing me closer to Him.

Friends Who Uplift and Encourage

One of the most cherished gifts every year is the friends—longtime and new—God has placed in my life. These friends have been a source of encouragement, wisdom, and joy. They’ve prayed with me, laughed with me, cried with me, and stood beside me through challenges. Friendship is a precious reminder of God’s design for community and fellowship. Through them, I have seen glimpses of His love and faithfulness.

Ministry Opportunities

Another incredible gift has been the ministry opportunities He has given me. God has opened doors for me to share His Word and love with others in meaningful ways. Whether through biblical counseling, hospital and nursing home visits, holding the hand of saints as they take their last breath here on earth and step into heaven for their faith to become sight, disciple-making sessions, or one-to-one conversations, I have experienced the joy making His Name known. Each opportunity has been a humbling reminder that God equips and prepares those whom He calls and for me to always be looking for ministry opportunities.

Writing

God has blessed my writing efforts. This year, I had the joy of releasing a new book, Wonder & Worship: 65 Days of Devotion, that I co-wrote with my lifelong Nigeria MK cousin, Harriet E. Michael. One of the highlights was an incredible book signing event where I was able to meet readers and share the inspiration behind the writing. I was also blessed to have one of my Christmas memories included in a collection, A Merry Southern Christmas. Additionally, I completed two more books and two booklets, which are scheduled to be published in 2025.

I have also been blessed with numerous opportunities to come alongside other writers and help them hone their craft. I pray that these books will touch lives, inspire hearts, and glorify God. This blessing has been a testimony of God’s perfect timing and provision.

Teaching and Speaking

God has also given me opportunities to speak and teach. I have taught Sunday school, Bible studies, biblical counseling, addiction issues, and women’s topics. Whether addressing a group, leading a Bible study, or teaching in other capacities, these moments have been both challenging and rewarding. Through these, I have learned to rely on His strength and wisdom. It’s been a joy to see Him work in the hearts and minds of others and to be reminded that His Word never returns void.

Piano Program Opportunities

Music has always been a special way to connect with God and others, and this year, I have been blessed to use piano as a ministry instrument. I always present a devotional thought before playing and leading the groups singing. And, of course, I usually play a piano solo. These programs have opened doors for me to share God’s love through the universal language of music to senior adult groups, church groups, and clubs. I have also had the honor or playing for my church and a couple of other churches. Each devotional and program have been an opportunity to glorify God, encourage others, and have a wonderful time singing together the great hymns of the faith and popular songs from the 20s – 70s. You may be interested to know that I have received several marriage proposals when I have played at various retirement centers.

A Heart of Gratitude

As I look back on these blessings, I’m reminded of James 1:17, which says, Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows (NIV). All the gifts I have mentioned so far are from Him. They’re not just blessings for me to enjoy but opportunities to bring glory to His Name and encourage others.

The Gift That Changes Everything

While I’m grateful for the blessings of friends, ministry opportunities, writing, teaching, speaking, and piano programs, none of these compares to the ultimate gift God gave us of His Son, Jesus Messiah. His birth, life, death, and resurrection have changed everything. Because of Him, we have hope, joy, peace, and eternal life. This Christmas, as we celebrate the Messiah’s arrival, may we remember that the greatest gift is not found under a tree, it is found in the Christ child who was placed in a manger, walked on this earth as fully God and fully man, suffered and died on a cross, was resurrected three days later, and then ascended to heaven where He sits at the right hand of the throne of the Sovereign God of the Universe.

May your Christmas season be filled with the joy of His presence, the peace of His promise, and the hope of His return. And may we all continue to count our blessings, big and small, as a reflection of God’s incredible love for us.