By David Brandt Berg

esus temporarily renounced the rights of His citizenship in Heaven and became a citizen of this world. Though He was rich, for our sakes He became poor that we through His poverty might become rich. He not only adapted Himself to our bodily form, but also conformed to the human ways of life, custom, language, dress and living, that He might understand and love us better and communi-cate with us on the lowly level of our own human understanding. He did it that He might reach us with His love, prove to us His compassion and concern, and help us understand His message in simple, childlike terms that we could grasp.

 
o many people are in need at Christmas, wanting love, feeling lonely, needing comfort and assurance that they matter. So many others are giving gifts at Christmas, hurrying here and there to buy things, to find the perfect present, to not be caught short having forgotten someone. … But does all that material gift-giving really make a difference? Of course it can be a help, but think of those I mentioned who are lonely, the ones who are hoping for a little company, a little friendship, someone they can connect with. What would they appreciate most?
     Why don't you give yourself this Christmas? Why don't you give of your time to talk to someone, to invite them into your home for a bit or to visit them in theirs? Why don't you see what you can do to make a difference in someone else's life? If they're interested and ready for it, why don't you tell them about Jesus, and how He can warm every corner of their heart? They'll be glad you did, and so will Jesus! In fact, that's the very best gift you can give to Jesus on His birthday, because He wants nothing more than for others to know Him and His Father's love.
     And if you don't have Jesus in your life yourself, why not ask Him into your heart this Christmas? That would be the best Christmas gift you'd ever receive! He's there for us all, and He wants to make your Christmas—and your life—truly beautiful, filled with love from Him—His special gift to you.
     I love you! Merry Christmas!

                                                                   —David Brant Berg