It wasn’t even mid-October, and there it was displayed among the homes with pumpkins and other fall-themed decorations. A nativity scene beautifully adorned the yard of a house we pass every morning. Now I’ll admit, I chuckled and thought to myself, “They decorated a little early for Christmas.” However, my daughter looked at the lawn and said, “Well, Mom, I guess that it is never too early to celebrate Jesus.” She had a valid point! Out of the mouths of babes, right?

Such joy comes with the birth of Jesus. Isaiah 9:6 NLT states, “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” The folks with the Christmas-themed lawn must have known the joy He brings. But we can all focus on the precious gifts that come with the birth of Christ.

We can receive a Savior and Redeemer, who is also someone full of wonder.

From being born to a virgin to dying on the cross for the world’s sins, from being sinless to loving us unconditionally, Jesus is Wonderful! We can receive the supreme Counselor. He is all-wise and has thoughts greater than we could ever think or imagine. As we receive Him, He lives inside of us to help guide our steps.

The joy of Christmas comes with a reminder that Jesus is a Mighty God. He is strong, all-powerful, and fights our battles. He is in control. He is not an absent, flawed, or part-time father; but rather an everlasting, ever-present Father who will never leave us nor forsake us. Finally, as we receive the Prince of Peace, in chaos, confusion, anxiety, or fear, His peace surpasses all understanding. May focusing on these precious gifts bring you joy this and every Christmas!

PRAYER: Dear God, thank You for Jesus. Thank You that He came to earth bearing precious gifts no amount of money could ever buy. I praise You for being Wonderful, my all-wise Counselor, my Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.  Please fill my heart with joy remembering these precious gifts during the holiday season and beyond — no matter what challenges come my way. May Christmas always serve as a reminder of the joy, hope, peace, and love You bring to me and to the world. In Jesus’ name amen.

JOY TO THE SOUL: We can receive a Savior and Redeemer, who is also someone full of wonder.

Quinnise Pettway is an author, blogger, facilitator, Licensed Professional Counselor, wife, and mother. Her mission is to help Christians shift their perspective of God, to strengthen their relationship with Him, and clarify their identity in Christ so that they can be all that He has created them to be.

Quinnise has a new book titled “A Glimpse of Our Father: Lessons Parenthood Reveals for All of God’s Children.” You can learn more on her blog at A Glimpse of Our Father. You can also connect with Quinnise on Facebook or Instagram.