In the story of the prodigal son, the surprising outcome is the younger son ends up bringing the Father more pleasure than the elder son. The younger son gave the Father an opportunity to give, but the elder son never did. He never asked for anything. One of the many lessons from this story is, God loves to give.

As we approach Christmas and think about the giving of gifts, let's remember God loves to give. Children have no problem accepting presents. They are delighted to be given a gift, but adults often feel the need to respond in kind. Some even buy spare presents in case they receive an unexpected gift. Yet, with God we cannot begin to reciprocate, no offering or penance will ever repay God’s goodness to us. He freely gave us Jesus, the most precious gift of all. He wants us to be like children and simply accept his gift of salvation, and respond with joy.

This process continues as we grow in the Lord. He wants to give us more of his grace, more of his love, and more of himself. He delights to give yet we are often reluctant receivers. We live in a world where you don't get anything for nothing. The attitude of the world is one of self-sufficiency which says: "I can make it on my own." However, God is looking for willing recipients who are humble enough to receive from him.

This Christmas, as God's people, let’s dispense with worldly reasoning, so we can gratefully accept all God has for us.