(MATTHEW 2:11)
Giving to Jesus. I was always impressed by the 3 wise men in the Christmas
story. Men of means. Men who were important, had busy lives. Yet on God's
word to them, they left and went on the journey of a lifetime to find the
baby Jesus in Bethlehem's manger. I was always impressed that they came
bearing gifts. They realized that this baby was something special, though
they never could have totally understood exactly how special. But when they
came, they brought their gifts, not so much to the baby Jesus, but as an
offering to God. You see, these men understood first of all where their
blessings and where their resources had come from. In addition to their
obedience in following God's word to take the journey to Bethlehem, they
also
understood that their offering to God was also an act of obedience, as well
as gratitude. Lastly, I am sure they realized that their gifts would be
used
by God to bless others. These men were not only close to God and close enough
to hear His voice, they also understood how God worked.
I know many of you will have a difficult time this Christmas because of a
lack of finances. I understand many right now are facing very difficult
situations. To you I say, find the real joy in Christmas, that being the
celebration of our Lord, not the celebration of presents. Secondly, know
that God has not abandoned you or left you. He is there, has a plan,
and will continue to sustain you because He promised He would. Many of you
though have been blessed and will have a very wonderful Holiday season with
family and friends. Many have taken the challenges of the past few weeks, as
well as being obedient to the Lord, and will be giving of your time,
talents,
and treasure this Christmas to help others. Let me encourage you, no matter
how much or how little you have, to do that. There is no greater gift than
that of yourself to others who are in need of someone to share the love of
Jesus with them this Christmas season.
