In my last sharing with you I talked about giving thanks in everything as being the will of God for us in Christ Jesus. Now we are slipping into another "giving" season. From giving thanks to giving gifts. Most of this idea came from the wise men bringing gifts to the newborn baby Jesus--the Saviour of the world (Matt. 1:21).
The first 12 verses of Matthew, chapter 2, relates to us the visit of the wise men from the east. They presented gifts of gold, incense and myrrh. However, they did not give gifts expecting gifts in return from the "king of the Jews." They came to (v. 2) worship Him. Then, in v. 11, they saw the child and "bowed down and worshiped him". (NIV) Worship was their purpose, giving of their gifts was a reaction. After they had worshiped Him, "they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts..."(v. 11-NIV).
It is not my intentions here to chide each of us for our traditions during the Christmas season. God knows only too well how many judgmental attitudes there are among "Christians", especially during this time of year. But, it may serve us all well, if we examine our reasoning, and timing, of giving.
We (as children) write our letters to Santa. We ask each other, "What do you want Santa Claus to bring you for Christmas?" Our "treasures" are opened, and our credit cards are maxed out. All this for the purpose of satisfying our so called "Christmas spirit". When all the time, our giving should be a reaction stemming from our worshiping.
For years parents have set ideals for giving to their children for Christmas. Two of the most prominent of those ideals are the following. One, give gifts equal to, or better than, their friends get. Two, make sure the children have more than the parents themselves had.
Other ideals include the likes of "one-upping" the neighbor with decorations. Another is keeping up with the Joneses" on the size of our TV or the latest electronic games or mobile phones. Not many of us would admit to such silliness, but we do it just the same.
Forgive me if I am appearing to you as being negative and judgmental. I love Christmas and what it stands for. I have probably bought into a more selfish idea of Christmas than I would like to admit to. But, as I get older, study His Word more, begin to understand the shortness of life, realize the value of worshiping Him and serving others, Christmas giving takes on a totally new meaning.
Father, help me to come to You for the purpose of worshiping and praising You. Then, may I open my treasures (where my heart is, Matt. 6:21) and give gifts that may bring glory to You and help wherever they are needed most. Because of Your Gift (Jesus) to us, may we be cheerful givers in return.
Wonderful!
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