Practical Gifts are the Best Gifts

Have you ever received an appliance for Christmas? Better yet, have you ever given an appliance for Christmas? Odds are, if you’ve given a gift such as a kitchen appliance, power tool, cleaning supplies, or even exercise equipment, there’s a good chance you’re on your way to getting coal in your stocking next year. But I’m more of a “practical gifts are the best gifts” kind of girl.

Let me tell you about the time I asked for and received a dishwasher for Christmas…as a preteen. At our house growing up, we all had our assigned chores. My sister was in charge of taking out the trash; my brother made sure the dogs always had food and water each day; and me…I was in charge of dishes. I didn’t mind this particular chore, but one year in mid-September our dishwasher broke. Do you know how awful it is to wash dishes by HAND as a young preteen who just wants to play and talk with her friends? (As an adult, I realize that many of you do in fact know exactly what I’m talking about.)

So I told my mom and dad I wanted a new dishwasher for Christmas. And I was serious! I needed this to make my life easier and my chores more efficient. (If only my brother and sister would have thought to ask for a self-dispensing dog bowl or a trash compactor for Christmas…)

On Christmas morning, I walk in the kitchen to find a brand-new, stainless-steel Whirlpool dishwasher complete adjustable racks, pot and pan wash cycle, and heated dry option. I fired up my new toy! The week between Christmas and New Year that year, there wasn’t a plate left in the sink because it always went straight to our new dishwasher. I ran it with pride each time.

In the Bible, we see Jesus met people’s practical needs quite often. He healed a man born blind, a woman bleeding, and a paralytic. He turned water to wine, washed the disciple’s feet, and fed a great multitude with only five loaves and two fish.

Jesus not only met people’s physical needs; however, He met their spiritual needs, as well. Jesus is the Bread of Life, the beloved Bridegroom, the Good Shepherd, Son of Man, Wonderful Counselor, Almighty God, Prince of Peace. Jesus is the One who takes away the sins of the world.

Sometimes, meeting a physical need is the best gift you can give someone to show them the love of Jesus through you. Practical gifts are the best gifts.

This Christmas season, as you reflect on your needs, both physical and spiritual, remember that “God will meet ALL your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”