I don’t know about you, but sometimes I like to do things differently because you never know when change might make this world a better place to live. For example, Vicki’s 50th birthday was on December 9, and rather than doing something special for her, or getting her a birthday gift, I decided to buy gifts for my two sons and daughter-in-laws. And then on top of that I bought my dad and his wife some gift certificates to their favorite eating places. And then finally, because she is so special to me, I bought my little granddaughter a new Tonka road grader and pay loader. (Mitchell is trying to get her interested in concrete paving. J) And then I invited all of them to come to our house so I could give them the gifts that I bought them in honor of Vicki’s birthday. I was having so much fun watching everyone open the special gifts I bought for them. Everyone was so excited to receive a gift on Vicki’s birthday; in fact everyone thanked Vicki for being born so that I had a reason to give them gifts. And although Vicki seemed a little confused and disappointed for the lack of attention, I’m sure she was pleased that I bought everyone else gifts in honor of her birthday.
Ok, so I’m kidding, but do you ever wonder why we give gifts to other people when we celebrate Jesus birthday? Wikianswers.com says we give gifts as a symbolic gesture of remembering the gifts that were given to Jesus by the Magi as well as in thanks to God for the gift of Jesus. Or we give gifts because we wish to show appreciation for another person.
Well, if that’s true, then shouldn’t we still give Jesus a gift in appreciation for what he has done for us? In fact have you considered what you’re going to give to Jesus for his birthday?
Here are some suggestions according to Matthew 25. If you know of anyone who is thirsty, give them something to drink. If you know of anyone who is hungry, give them something to eat. If you know of someone who is homeless, give them a place to stay. If you know of someone who needs cloths, give them some. And if you know of someone who is sick or in prison, go and visit them. For Jesus said, “Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.” One of the greatest gifts you can give Jesus is meeting the need of someone who can’t help themselves.
Many of you have asked if there is a way to help the people whose stories we have been watching on Sunday morning. You can find out more information by going to www.live58.org.
As you celebrate Christmas with family and friends, let me suggest you set up two additional chairs, one chair representing Jesus, whose birthday we are really celebrating, and the second chair representing your desire to help “the least of these.” Then maybe you have a discussion about the real purpose behind our gift giving. May it be said of us that we are like the wise men who considered it an honor and privilege to give Jesus their finest gifts.
Have a blessed Christmas, Mike