Tag: Gifts

Investing in what lasts

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DARYL VAUGHN

Everyone loves receiving gifts. There’s something meaningful about knowing someone cared enough to think of us and offer a token of their affection. Yet the greatest gift ever offered remains unopened by many: the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. This gift becomes real only when it is accepted, and eternal life works the same way. Some people never open this gift simply because they have never understood it. This is why followers of Christ continue to share God’s message, helping others see that Christ offers life that never ends.

Gifts on a table. IRS Images, 2025

Followers of Christ are called to invest in things that matter beyond this world. The work of faith is intentional. Strong families of faith and solid friendships do not appear by chance. They grow when people pray for each other, support one another, and live in obedience to God. Scripture tells believers to carry each other’s burdens and to encourage one another toward good works—not to earn salvation, but because salvation has already been given.

This same commitment shapes the whole faith community. When people give their time, their abilities, and their resources to honour Christ, they strengthen the body of believers and leave a legacy for those who follow. Reaching others is part of this work. Every neighbourhood holds people from many backgrounds, and all of them need to hear who Jesus is. God’s desire is for every person to be born again, and obedience to Him means welcoming others and inviting them to know His love.

Prayer and Scripture are vital in this investment. Time with God each day guides the heart and strengthens faith. Reading the Bible with prayer invites the Holy Spirit to reveal what God wants us to understand. Even a short passage can shape the day when it is read with attention and followed with prayer.

Jesus taught that earthly treasures fade, but treasures stored in heaven cannot be lost. When believers give and serve, they are not simply supporting tasks or buildings. They are investing in people, in families, and in eternity.

The question before each believer is simple: Where are you investing? The returns on earthly treasures are temporary, but the returns on kingdom investment last forever.

Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth.

Colossians 3:2

The Riches We Receive Through Christ

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AMY TURNER

The Bible teaches that Jesus, though rich in glory, chose to become poor for our sake. He left the greatness of heaven and entered our world, carrying the burden of sin so that we could share in the wealth of His grace.

When we think about what this means, it is clear that we now live with riches far greater than anything money can buy. These are treasures of the soul. The include mercy, reconciliation, and hope that lasts forever. Because of this, giving to others should not feel like a duty but a natural response.

By sharing what we have, we reflect the heart of Christ, who gave everything for us.

2 Corinthians 8:9

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.

A Gift of Love: Sharing the Spirit of Christmas

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JEFF TURNER

In this busy Christmas season, Jeff Treece of Sunday Drive reminds us of a precious gift we can give that doesn’t cost a thing – the gift of love and kindness.

Treece suggests, “At Christmas time, it’s the perfect time to share joy and be a light in the world.” He points out that while many people are rushing around trying to find the perfect present, Christians have an opportunity to make a real difference.

“If we, as Christians, just slow down a little bit and share the love when we get out amongst people,” Treece says, we can have a positive impact on those around us. This simple act of kindness aligns with the true spirit of Christmas.

Treece emphasizes the importance of this gesture, stating, “We want to take people to heaven with us, that’s the ultimate goal.” This reflects the Christian belief in sharing God’s love and message with others.

He adds a personal touch, saying, “Me, personally, I want the Lord to put his arms out and say, ‘Jeff Treese, you told body.'” This shows his deep desire to fulfill what he sees as a Christian duty to spread love and joy.

Treece concludes with a call to action: “So let’s share love. Let’s be the light out in the world this Christmas season.” This echoes the biblical teaching found in Matthew 5:16, which encourages believers to “let your light shine before others.”