Pastor Rick Warren, the founder of Saddleback Church, has challenged believers to think about the true meaning of giving during the holiday season. “What if you had a birthday party where you gave gifts to everybody at the party except the one whose birthday it was?” he asked, urging Christians to consider what gift they could offer Jesus for His birthday.
He pointed out, “The thing is, [Jesus] doesn’t have everything. He doesn’t have your love unless you give it. He doesn’t have your trust unless you give it. He doesn’t have your worship unless you give it. He doesn’t have your loyalty unless you give it. He doesn’t have your heart unless you give it.”
Warren emphasized that there are many ways to give back to Christ, reminding the congregation: “You can give him your time. You can give him your love. You can give him the first part of every day. You can give him the first day of every week. You can give him first consideration in every decision.”
In closing, he encouraged believers to place their trust in Jesus, especially during times of hardship. “Give him your patience. Give him your trust. You’re going through a tough time. Give him your trust,” Warren urged, reinforcing the importance of faith and loyalty in all circumstances.
