Pacifica Stories

Christmas is a time of gift-giving. We spend much mental energy considering others and thinking about what they might like for Christmas. The hope is that they will experience great joy when they open presents. Thoughtful giving is essential.

Receiving is also essential. It is the other side of the coin to giving. When we are given a present, two things must happen. First, we must open it. Unopened gifts don't serve their given purpose. Second, we must use the gift. Gifts opened and set aside are not fully received. They become an afterthought. We have all experienced a child opening a present and then running after the next box in the next moment. Some presents don't measure up and fall by the wayside. They are ignored.

At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Christ, God with us. We are celebrating the fact that grace and truth have entered the world. What a gift. We can't leave this gift under the tree. We must bend down, pick it up, open it, and use it. We must receive it with gratitude. Perhaps it is a gift that will help transform our lives, bringing joy, wisdom, purpose, love, peace, courage, justice, and much more.

So this Christmas, as you are a generous giver, remember to be a grateful gift receiver as you receive God's gift to the world.

By Jim Knight, Head of School