Though often extolled as the most joyous season of all, this time of year leaves many feeling sadly depressed. For some, it is because of the inevitable let down after festivities wind to a close and guests pack up and drive away. For others, the season is accompanied by remembrances of loved ones with whom we have parted company. In spite of this, there are good things about this season which should be carried with us throughout the year.
First, we should be reminded of the fact that the deeper, more abiding joy is in giving rather than receiving. This is indicated by our Lord when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). A selfish, spoiled-brat attitude is not conducive to living a happy, productive life. As children of God, we have the unique privilege of viewing all things in their most positive light. As the beloved apostle reminds us, “all things work together for good” for “those who love God” and are “called according to His purpose” (Rm. 8:28). This important piece of information enables us to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, [and] give thanks in all circumstances…” (1 Th. 5:18).
The reason we can “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Ph. 4:4) is because of an altered state of mind. Instead of growing into a state of discontent because of the things we do not have in our possession; we decide, instead, to focus on the many things we have received from the Giver of every good and perfect gift (Jas. 1:17; Acts 13:17; Mt. 5:45). Aside from such temporal blessings, there are innumerable spiritual blessings found in Christ Jesus our Lord (Eph. 1:3). Even when things do not appear to be going our way and anxious thoughts arise in our hearts, we can turn it over to Him because He cares for us (1 Pet. 5:7). In the midst of darkening shadows, Paul tells us to “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Ph. 4:6). The subsequent result of incomprehensible peace is a blessing the world can neither give nor take from us (Jn. 14:27).
Such being the case, the focus of our thinking and the predominant pattern of our life should be on giving rather than receiving. St. Francis of Assisi is attributed to having said, “It is in giving that we receive.” This takes us full circle to what the Lord Himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). A heart changed forever by the gift of Calvary (Jn. 3:16) ought always to be looking for opportunities to give. Like the first-century Macedonians, we should long for the blessing of participating in the support of those in need (2 Cor. 8:1-4). How can one explain such unselfish joy in the midst of abject poverty? The Scripture explains that “they first gave themselves to the Lord” (vs. 5). In the act of giving, we open ourselves to wonderful, unending possibilities for joy and fulfillment in this life and in the age to come.