The Gifts of the Cross

If we give gifts to show our love, how much more would He? If we–speckled with foibles and greed–love to give gifts, how much more does God, pure and perfect God, enjoy giving gifts to us? Jesus asked, “If you hardhearted, sinful men know how to give good gifts to your children, wont your Father in heaven even more certainly give good gifts to those who ask Him for them?” (Matt. 7:11) . God’s gifts shed light on God’s heart, God’s good and generous heart. Jesus’ brother, James, tells us:”Every desirable and beneficial gift comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading down from the Father of Light” (James 1:17). Every gift reveals God’s love…..but no gift reveals His love more than the gifts of the cross. They came , not wrapped in paper, but in passion. Not placed around a tree, but a cross. And not covered with ribbons, but sprinkled with blood. The gifts of the cross. Much has been said about the gift of the cross itself, but what of the other gifts? What of the nails, the crown of thorns? The garments taken by the soldiers. The garments given for the burial. Have you taken time to open these gifts? He didnt have to give them, you know. The only act, the only ‘required’ act for our salvation was the shedding of blood, yet He did much more. So much more. Search the scene of the cross, and what do you find? A wine-soaked sponge. A sign. Two crosses beside Christ. Divine gifts intended to stir that moment, that split second when your face will brighten, your eyes will widen, and God will hear you whisper, “You did this for me?”