Christmas is a few days away and many of us are bustling around purchasing last minute gifts for family and friends. Why? Well, it seems to be what we do during this time of year. And most people do seem to enjoy receiving gifts from people who care about them. We also enjoy giving gifts to those whom we care for.
So, let me ask you a question, "What gift will you give this year for Christmas?"
While you're thinking through your list of people and gifts, let's talk about this time of year.
When asked, most of us can repeat the "Christmas Story".
We know that it is found in the Bible.
We probably know that it is found in the New Testament.
We might even know it is found in a couple of the Gospels (the first four books of the New Testament).
Most people know of Mary, the mother of Jesus and that Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Many will remember that Mary's husband was Joseph and that he was a humble carpenter by trade.
Many will also recall that there was a star, a manger, some shepherds, and some angels involved.
And other traditions that are questionable may include a donkey, and inn keeper, and farm animals.
I encourage you to take some time to find out the facts of Christ's birth for yourself. It will make it more real for you.
Let's make the transition over to another part of the Story of Christ's birth. Let me introduce you to the Magi.
This word may be familiar to some, and unknown to others. Other familiar titles may include, the Three Wise men or the Three Kings.
Yes, they are those often "out of place" figurines that come with your nativity set. It is always hard to place them among the other figures. Where should they stand, among the shepherds and animals?
Some quick research uncovered a few estimations about these men because little is known about them. Scholars of the Bible have looked back through history to try to uncover what they could about these faithful travelers for afar.
It is known that they are from "the east" (Matthew 2:1) and that they had traveled to Jerusalem, the capital of Judea in Israel.
The exact homeland of the men is speculated to be Southern Arabia or Mesopotamia, with priestly origins being associated with the Persians or the Babylonians. If they were indeed kings is unknown.
Albeit hard to pinpoint a specific place or sect, it is easy to recognize that these men were dedicated to their work.
The prediction of the star that lead then to Jesus was written of hundreds of years earlier (Genesis 3:15; Micah 5:2; Isaiah 7:14 & 9:6 & 60:3; Numbers 24:17) and yet the search had been ongoing and passed on until it was fulfilled.These men took it seriously, packed up, and left to find the new born King (Matthew 2:2).
The first time we meet them, they are standing before King Herod in Jerusalem asking about the new born King.
Still following the star, the Magi travel to the small town of Bethlehem where they find Mary, and the young child, Jesus now living in a house and not huddled around a manger (Matthew 2:8,9,11).
The Magi set two examples for us during their time in the humble home. First, they fall to the ground and worship the King child. Second, they present their gifts of great value and significance (Matthew 2:11).
Now, go back with me to the question, "What gift will you give this year for Christmas?".
Did you notice that I used the word gift, not gifts. Our thoughts race as we try to remember to purchase a token of care for each person on our list, but what about the King? What have you planned to give Him?
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to earth to be born, to live, to die, and to be raised from the dead for YOU. He gave the ultimate gift - Himself!
No, we cannot send Jesus a gift via UPS, but we can have the same mindset as the Magi.
We can seek Him with all our hearts and get to know Him personally. We can praise Him as Creator, Keeper, and King of everything, including that of our lives. We can give Him the gift of ourselves, to serve and love Him because He is worthy.
Believe it or not, that is all He wants for Christmas- you!
Study to Learn:
If you are unsure of how to give your life to Jesus these Bible verses will lead you. When you understand, simply talk to Him. Tell Him that you believe that He is Jesus the Christ and the Savior and that you are a sinner. Ask Him to forgive you and to be your Savior.
God loves you: But we are sinners:
Romans 5:8 Romans 3:10-11
John 3:16 Romans 5:12
God provided a way: Forgiveness can be ours:
I Corinthians 15: 3-4 Romans 10:13
Colossians 1:14 John 20:31
The story of Christ's birth can be found in Matthew 1:18-2:23 and Luke 1:26-2:40
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