The Real Thing

Bible Reading: John 3:16; 14:6

“What do you think about this one?” Mom asked.

“It’s too skinny. We need something fatter.” Dad was pretty particular about finding the perfect Christmas tree. It was a family tradition. The entire family would hop into the van and drive an hour to a Christmas tree farm in the middle of nowhere. Next came a long hike through drifting snow until the perfect Christmas tree was found.

“Can’t we just get a fake tree, Dad? I can’t feel my feet.”

“Just a little bit longer, Noah. We have a thermos of hot chocolate waiting in the van. Where’s your Christmas spirit?”

“I think I left it back in the van with my gloves.”

“Very funny.” Dad pointed down the row of trees. “I think your mom and sister just found the perfect tree. Let’s go help them cut it down.” Noah trudged through the snow, trying to warm his hands by tucking them into the sleeves of his jacket.

“That’s the perfect tree! Nice job, ladies!” Dad crawled under the tree and started sawing. It didn’t take long for the tree to topple over onto its side and the rich scent of pine to fill the air.

“Seriously, Dad. Why do we go through all this trouble just for a Christmas tree?” Noah asked as he took the saw and folded it up.

“I go through all this trouble because it reminds me what Christmas is all about,” said Dad. “Think about it. This tree is the real thing. We couldn’t bring it home without cutting it down—it had to die. And just like this tree, Jesus is the real thing. The Bible says He’s the way, the truth, and the life. And just like this tree, God sent Him to earth to die for us. I go through all of this trouble because I don’t want to forget what Christmas is all about.”

Noah smiled. “That’s pretty good, Dad. Maybe I’ll continue this tradition when I get older. Just don’t forget to put some gifts under this tree. That’s also why we celebrate Christmas—Jesus was God’s gift to the world.”

Dad smiled. “I already know the perfect gift for you, Noah. A pair of gloves!” • Jared Hottenstein

How About You?

Are you remembering what Christmas is all about? It’s easy to think only about the piles of presents and bright shining lights. But the most perfect present of all is God’s gift to us—His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the real thing; there’s nothing fake about Him. He really lived, He really died, and He defeated death and rose from the dead. He’s alive!

Today’s Key Verse:
John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus is the real thing