Before you call me Santa’s grumpy elf, I am writing to adults who no longer believe in Santa. Or at least, they shouldn’t.
As adults, we know that Santa isn’t real, but for our small children and grandchildren, we keep Santa as part of the family tradition because it’s fun playing along with the game. Thanks to the magic of TV Christmas specials, and holiday advertising–children all around the world believe in the man who knows if they’ve been naughty or nice.
Whether the child has been naughty or nice, we, as parents, still deliver that special present they requested from Santa on their long Christmas lists. On Christmas morning, we give Santa all the credit. The famous statement in most households is: “Let’s see what Santa put under the tree for you.”
Like a child, are you expecting a present this Christmas? Not from Santa, but from the Lord. One of my favorite parts of God’s heart is His desire to give us amazing presents. Our Father in heaven delights in giving good gifts to His children. His gifts are perfect and abundantly more than any human gift we are capable of giving.
In prayer, have you asked God for anything this Christmas? Have your jotted anything in your prayer journal that you would like for God to bring you? When God looks at His “to do” list, will He see any requests from you?
The most popular songs this time of year is: “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” The lyrics go something like this: “He’s making a list and checking it twice.”
Does God have anything on His list to perform and check off for you? He tells us in Luke 11:13, “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” God’s gifts are always exactly what you need when you need it.
How much more? The phrase “how much more” is intentionally expressive and expansive.
The whole point is that God always delivers on this request. So although Santa is not real, you can still expect presents from the ultimate Gift Giver. Remember, we have not, because we ask not.
To learn more about Barbara Bryant, visit www.barbarabryant.com.
