The Essence of Christmas
In a world where “Merry Xmas” has become the norm, it’s vital to pause and remember: Jesus is the reason for the season. So, let’s joyfully proclaim “Merry Christ-mas” ensuring Christ is in the season and reflect on the true essence of this festive time.
The Joy of Giving
Reflecting on my childhood, I fondly recall the excitement at my grandmother’s house. My grandfather, playing Santa, would leave milk and cookies out. The thrill of receiving gifts was immense, the anticipation of receiving a gift was so real. Yet, as an adult, I’ve realized that there’s greater joy in giving than receiving.
The Commercial and the Sacred
We see various symbols each Christmas – reindeer, snowmen, Christmas trees, decking the halls and malls. But amidst these commercial signs, we also encounter the sacred – angels, stars, manger scenes, and wise men worshipping baby Jesus, yet the question to ask is, are the majority of our communities actually aware of the significance of this time? Areas are lit up with houses decorated to the extreme. However, all of this should be a special reminder to us of the spiritual significance of the season. Emmanuel, God with us.
The Wise Men’s Gifts to Christ
In Matthew 2:1–11, we read about the Magi’s journey to worship Jesus. Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh were not just valuable items but prophetic symbols of Christ’s kingship, priesthood, and the sacrificial nature of His death. These gifts were an act of worship. The wise men displayed the same response Abram had towards Melchizedek – a response to the blessing that had arrived, recognition of God’s deity and anointment.
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi [wise men] from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. . . .
“After they had heard the king, [the wise men] went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. ” Matthew 2:1–3, 9–11
God’s Perfect Gift
James reminds us that every perfect gift is from above. This perfection is seen in its completeness, reflecting God’s unchanging nature and His plan for humanity. Jesus is central to His plan, hence the perfect gift. Salvation is the perfect gift you can give to anyone.
“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [for He is perfect and never changes].” – James 1:17
God’s Ultimate Gift to Mankind
By definition of the world, the concept of the “perfect gift” often implies a gift that is profoundly meaningful, thoughtful, and well-suited to the recipient. It’s not just about the material value but more about the significance it holds. A perfect gift ideally reflects a deep understanding of the recipient’s desires, needs, or personality. It carries an emotional value, symbolizing the relationship between the giver and the receiver. In many ways, it’s not just what is given, but the intention, love, or thought behind it that makes a gift perfect. This idea aligns with the sentiment that the best gifts come from the heart, not necessarily from a store.
John 3:16 beautifully encapsulates the heart of Christmas. God’s love for the world was so profound that He gave His only begotten Son. The Wise Men anticipated, studied, followed the light, and worshipped the Redeemer, Immanuel – God with us.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16
The Divine Strategy
God’s strategy was profound yet simple. He came down to be with us so we might rise to be with Him. This baby in a manger, prophesied for centuries, became the humble servant who would conquer death, take back authority, and restore abundant life to His people.
Embracing God’s Grace
Christmas is not just a celebration; it’s an invitation to embrace God’s grace through faith.
As we remember the birth of Jesus, let’s hold onto the heart of Christmas – God’s grace revealed, waiting for our response.
As we exchange gifts and share the festive joy this season, let’s keep Jesus at the centre of Christmas, remembering the profound love and sacrifice that marks this time of year. Merry Christmas, and may you experience the abundant blessings of God’s perfect gift.
Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2024
This blog was inspired by Ps Shaun‘s message at Faith Legacy Believers Church on the 24th of December, 2023. You can view the message below.