The Gift of Self: A Christmas Reflection

The Greatest Gift

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:4

“The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.”

Sermon

As we gather to celebrate the birth of Christ, the ultimate gift of love, let us reflect on the profound nature of giving and receiving. The season of Christmas often prompts us to exchange presents, tangible tokens of our affection. However, the most precious gift we can offer and receive is not material but spiritual.

In the passage from 1 Corinthians, we encounter a unique perspective on the concept of ownership. Paul writes, “The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.”

At first glance, this may seem counterintuitive. We are accustomed to the idea of individual ownership and autonomy. Yet, within the context of marriage, Paul reveals a higher calling: the mutual self-giving of two individuals.

This selfless act of giving oneself to another mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ. Just as Christ gave His life for us, so too, husbands and wives are called to lay down their lives for one another. This is not merely a physical act but a spiritual one, a surrender of one’s desires, dreams, and ambitions for the sake of their beloved.

The gift of oneself is the ultimate expression of love. It is a gift that cannot be bought or sold, but only freely given. When we give ourselves to another, we offer them the most precious possession we have: our hearts.

In the same way that Christ came to earth as a gift to humanity, so too, we are called to be gifts to one another. Let us strive to be generous givers, offering our love, compassion, and support to those around us.

As we celebrate Christmas this year, let us remember the true meaning of the season. It is not about receiving gifts, but about giving ourselves to others. By doing so, we honor the greatest gift of all: the love of God.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. May we follow His example of selfless love and give ourselves freely to others. Help us to be generous givers, offering our time, talents, and treasures to those in need. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.