Christmas can be a stressful time of year for some. In a recent poll, when people were asked what they wanted for Christmas, they responded by saying a gift card or something handmade. Yet, most people need grace (God’s favor) and peace. Grace is a free gift from God.   

The first step in receiving grace is to stop working for it and believe. “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil his promises to her!” Luke 1:45

When the angel first came to Mary, he said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” The word favor here is Charitoo, to pursue with grace or to make graceful. The old testament speaks of grace when God looks upon us. God highly favored Mary because of her lowly (humble) state (Luke 1:48). 

So the second step in receiving grace is to humble ourselves.

“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” James 4:6

So this Christmas, seek the best gift of all Jesus Christ; grace and peace only come through Him.

“For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:16