Looking for the Perfect Gift?

by Rev. Bill Harmon

At this time of the year I often find myself spending countless hours in search of the perfect gift. Do you find yourself doing this too?

For many people, the Christmas season represents the search for a unique gift: a gift sure to dazzle its recipient. The hope is that this gift is immune from the ever-changing fads of the times, retaining its luster even after the lights and decorations have come down for the year. We all want to give that gift that everyone will remember. At the same time, we like to receive that kind of gift as well.

As you may have discovered such a gift cannot be found in the stores, on the internet, or in one of the hundreds of catalogues you have found in your mailbox. A gift of this sort is not for sale. Truth be told, any gift we purchase this year runs the risk of being out of date, out of style, or out of commission as early as the next day!

There is only one perfect gift. His name is Jesus Christ. He alone offers indescribable joy that will never go out of style. He alone offers amazing love that will never fade away. He alone offers transcendent peace that will last for eternity.

Each and every year Christmas proves to be a truly meaningful time as we gather together to exchange gifts with those we love, and celebrate the festive feeling so prevalent at this time of the year. Yet all of these blessings prove brighter and more joyful in light of the original and ultimate Christmas gift: Jesus, the promised Messiah and Savior of the world.

The Christmas season provides an opportunity for all people to contemplate a God who loves us in such an amazing way that He chose to be born in a manger. We rejoice in a God who came into His world, lived the life of a human, and offered His life on a cross to bring life and salvation. His offer still stands for you. He came to provide all people with an eternal future and a greater sense of purpose in His power and love. Will you receive His gift?

In this season of good tidings, comfort and joy may you find them in the greatest gift of all. The perfect gift, the gift of Jesus and His life changing love for you. Merry Christmas!

Rev. Bill Harmon attended Concordia College, Bronxville New York where he completed the Pre-Seminary
program and earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Judeo-Christian Heritage. Following his graduation from college, Pastor Harmon went on to Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, where he graduated with a Masters of Divinity degree. He was ordained into the ministry on June 14, 1998.
Pastor Harmon previously served as Associate Pastor in Flat Rock, Michigan. Pastor then accepted the call to serve as Associate Pastor of Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in Garden City, New York. His duties as Associate Pastor included family ministry, youth, and children’s ministry. In 2002, Pastor Harmon was called to serve as the Lead Pastor at Resurrection.
Pastor has served as Circuit Counselor of the Nassau Circuit of the Atlantic District, Member of the Board of Directors of Long Island Lutheran Middle and High School and an adjunct religion teacher at the school. He has served as Chair of the Garden City Clergy Fellowship, Director and Board Member of the Garden City Community Council on Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention and Member of the Board of Directors of Lutheran Social Services of New York.
In 2008 Pastor Harmon accepted the call to serve the Lord at King of Glory, Williamsburg, Virginia. Pastor Harmon is blessed to be married to his wonderful wife and honored to be the father of their three children.