Running Past the Big Gift

An Advent devotion by Sara Wolff Lewis. The most memorable Christmas gift I received was in 1978. In the months leading up to Christmas, most nights after I went to bed, my father would lower the steps to the attic and start working on a project. It could not have been comfortable in the cramped, cold space.

Christmas morning arrived, and I ran straight toward the gifts under the Christmas tree. I got dolls, clothes, small toys, the normal gifts – but not “big gift.” Slightly disappointed, I turned around to get my stocking from the fireplace mantel. Then I saw it – a beautiful, handmade dollhouse! I was awestruck. Standing almost as tall as me, it had wooden siding, shutters and a chimney for the fireplace. Upholstered chairs, window treatments, carpeting, and a stainless kitchen sink (my missing stove baking pan) completed the three-story gem. This dollhouse was why Daddy had been working in the attic almost every night. 

My parents still laugh about me running right past my “big gift” – a gift on which both parents had worked countless hours. As an adult, I wonder how many times I get caught up in the routine of Christmas – all the to-do lists and social events – that I run right by the “big gift” from God, only to turn around at the end of Christmas and finally see Jesus. 

My earthly parents lovingly built and decorated (my mother still makes curtains and recovers furniture – but for my real house) their great gift for me. God, with His boundless love and grace, sent all of us the gift of Jesus Christ. 

This Advent season, I pray that I do not get so bogged down in the tasks of Christmas that I miss the real reason we celebrate. This year, I do not want to have to turn around to see Jesus. May I run toward the eternal “big gift” – Jesus – throughout the season. 

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” – James 1:17

Sara Wolff Lewis is a member of the Pecometh Board of Directors. 

Scroll to Top