What does God want for Christmas? It may sound like a strange question, but it may be the most important one we answer in this season.

As we approach the holiday, many of us are scurrying to make all of the necessary preparations for our family and friends. There is food to buy, decorations to find and hang, and, of course, presents to buy. In fact, we spend a significant amount of time thinking about, and buying, presents for family, friends, and even ourselves.

I know, I spend a lot of time thinking about what I want. Once the commercials begin and I commence the “hunt and buy” process, I find that I become more aware of what I hope to receive Christmas Day. I like to convince myself that I am only gathering ideas so family and friends will to know what to get me, but, truthfully, it involves some of my selfish side as well.

I also spend ample time asking, and thinking about, what other people in my life would like to receive. While part of me thinks about me, a greater part rejoices in begin a blessing to others. I love to see the joy on the faces of my wife and children as they open a gift they wanted. I get excited thinking about the happiness the gift I giving will bring to friends. I pray that the staff gifts will bless and encourage my staff. Part of the joy of Christmas is found in the sharing.

What about God? Do I think about what God would like to receive for Christmas? Do I ponder what the One who gave everything for me would like to have for the holiday? Sadly, no, or at least, not enough, and I wonder if others do either. In the midst of the busyness of the season and the concern for self and others, it is easy to assume that since God doesn’t need anything, there is nothing to offer him.

It is true that God needs nothing, but there are things God desires. Sure, the Almighty could merely speak and any desire would be fulfilled, but part of God’s desire is that we would be the source of that fulfillment so he waits for us to respond.

So what does God desire. The first thing God wants for Christmas is us. He wants our heart, our love, our attention. Like a mother or father who is less concerned with the cost or quality of the gift, but is filled with joy to be remembered, God is not looking for a bigger gift in the offering plate or some extravagant gesture, but is blessed when we remember him.

It is true that ultimately it is the thought that counts, but how that thought is expressed can be important. So how can we express our thoughtfulness to God? Allow me to offer a short list to stimulate your creativity.

Love one another.
Love someone you consider other.
Love mercy, justice and humility.
Work for all three.
Share the compassion and grace God has shown you.
Pray for peace.
Work for peace.
Make time to be with God.
Make time to be with people.
Feed the hungry.
Clothe the naked.
Visit those imprisoned by law or by life.
Be good news to poor and captive.
Encourage the brokenhearted.
Proclaim the year of the Lord.
In short, embrace the Gospel, live the Gospel, and be the Gospel.

May the joy of Christmas be yours. May it come to others through you, and may you feel the joy of the Lord as he rejoices over you this holiday season.