Have you ever sacrificed something precious to give a gift to someone you love? The story of Jim and Della, a newlywed couple with more love than money, beautifully illustrates this kind of sacrificial giving.
Della had her long, flowing hair, and Jim had his pocket watch passed down from his father and his grandfather. But as Della began to do the math, she knew that she needed something more to get the gift for Jim that she desired to give him.
In a twist of irony, Della sells her hair to buy Jim a watch chain, while Jim sells his watch to buy Della combs for her hair. Their story of love and sacrifice mirrors the heart of the Christmas season – a time when we celebrate the ultimate gift given to humanity.
The Wise Men's Journey: A Model of Seeking and Giving
As we explore Matthew's account of Jesus' birth, we encounter another powerful story of gift-giving – that of the wise men. These astrologers from the East embarked on an extraordinary journey to find and honor the newborn King of the Jews. Their actions provide a blueprint for how we can approach this Christmas season with purpose and meaning.
1. The Wise Men Longed
The wise men discovered that chasing after the things of the world ultimately leaves you feeling empty. Because we haven't yet filled our heart with the one thing that it truly desires, and that's the love of Jesus.
Like the wise men, many of us feel a deep longing in our hearts. We search for fulfillment in various places, but true satisfaction comes only through a relationship with our Creator. This Christmas, take time to reflect on what your heart truly desires.
2. The Wise Men Acted
The wise men were entrepreneurs. They saw something that needed to be done, and they went after it.
The magi didn't just dream about finding the newborn king – they took action. They embarked on a journey of over 1,500 miles, demonstrating remarkable perseverance. Their example challenges us to put our faith into action this Christmas season.
3. The Wise Men Found
After their long journey, the wise men finally found what they were seeking – the Christ child. Their persistence paid off, reminding us that when we earnestly seek God, we will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).
If you're looking for the promise and the presence of God, I believe that you will find it.
4. The Wise Men Gave
"When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh" (Matthew 2:10-11).
The magi's gifts were both valuable and symbolic:
- Gold: Affirming Jesus' royalty and power
- Frankincense: Recognizing His holiness and divinity
- Myrrh: Foreshadowing His sacrificial death
Their generous giving serves as an example for us today.
Putting It Into Practice: The Gift of Christmas
As we approach Christmas, let's follow the wise men's example:
1. Recognize your longing: Acknowledge that true fulfillment comes only through a relationship with Jesus.
2. Take action: Don't just think about serving others or growing in faith – do something concrete this Christmas season.
3. Seek and find: Look for God's presence in your daily life. Remember, you always find what you're looking for.
4. Give generously: Consider how you can bless others this Christmas.
My biggest hope for you this Christmas is first, that you find and embrace the love of Jesus every day of your life. And secondly, that you become a person who gives – that your life becomes defined by questions like “Who can I bless?” and “What difference can I make?”
This Christmas, let's remember that the greatest gift we can receive is Jesus Himself. As you celebrate, ask yourself: Have you received the gift of Christmas, the promise of eternal life that Jesus offers? And who, in turn, will you bless this year?
May this season be filled with the joy of both giving and receiving the love of Christ.