Jesus said, "I will give you what no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, what no hand has touched, what has not arisen in the human heart." (17 Thomas)

We have been given something beyond our wanting, beyond our imagination.

The gift has arrived. It is covered in elaborate historical, cultural, ecclesiastical and theological wrapping.

Some may find the wrapping overdone and even bizarre. But it is, after all, just wrapping.

My grandmother always treated the paper, ribbon and bows with delicate care. Most of the grandkids, me included, would tear past the wrapping as quickly as possible.

But so often what Jesus has given us stays wrapped-up. The gift beyond imagination is left in its box and hidden at the back of the closet.

Above is a modern icon of Thomas the Apostle.