For Christmas to be Christmas there is a necessary part–the exchange of gifts. Here we see the presentation of gifts by the wise men. Joseph, Mary and Jesus were in the house. The wise men were men of power, in authority in their countries in the Middle East. They sought the One born King of the Jews. They made sure they had supplies for their trip. I wish people would seek Jesus today. What a Christmas it would be! The wise men packed gifts for the new king. Even though he was young and wouldn’t understand gifts, they wanted to give them to him.
It was reciprocal. The wise men realized the birth was divine. With that knowledge and the star they knew they had received a gift. They believed in what God had given. The whole earth got a present that day. By and large people today don’t realize the gift of God.
What would Christmas be without the exchange of gifts? Well, it would certainly be less expensive. This is the season to remember to give to God because he gave to us.
Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.
I have a twofold question. Let me ask you what particular gift God has already given you. Then, what do you want to give God?
(Time was given for responses from the congregation.)
The truths of Christmas are good for all year. The same scriptures are used year after year and they still work each time. God loves us with an everlasting love. We serve a God who continues to give. When we give out, God will still be giving.
The wise men returned home. The shepherds went back to the field. They all returned different in heart because the Lord went with them. I’m looking forward to talking with the shepherds and wise men in heaven. More than that I’m looking forward to seeing the Gift–Jesus Christ.
Adwolfe Freewill Baptist Church 