Chris Tidland is a very good golfer. However, for six straight years he missed the final cut in q-school by a couple of strokes. In 2005, it came down to the final hole, and he missed it by one stroke. Many athletes would stop trying after all those years, but knowing Chris, he would never give up. The following year, Tidland again found himself in the top 30 players on the leaderboard in the final round. Only the final 30 would advance to the PGA Tour the next season. Would he finish strong and get an early Christmas present?

As we approach Christmas this year, we see that the stores are busier than ever. Families are preparing for huge celebrations. The decorations are out, the trees are being trimmed, everything is ready for the celebration except for one thing: the guest of honor is not invited to most of the parties across the country.

Over 2,000 years ago, God sent his Son as a gift to the world. Paul described it as God's indescribable gift. Jesus Christ was the best gift ever. However, as people celebrate this year, will they invite Christ to be a part of their festivities? Those who know Christ know what a wonderful gift He was to us.

Tidland approached the final hole. He needed to make a par to make the top 30. And that day, Tidland earned his gift. He made par, and he will earned his PGA Tour card. Have you received God's free gift to you? Make Christ a part of your holiday celebrations instead of being more concerned with the latest video game machine, clothing fashion or DVD. Accept His gift, enjoy Him as a gift, and introduce Him as a gift to others. That is a gift that will be remembered eternally.