Daily Devotional for Saturday December 18, 1999

Giving to Jesus

(MATTHEW 2:11)

Giving to Jesus. I was always impressed by the 3 wise men in the Christmas story. Men of means. Men who were important, had busy lives. Yet on God's word to them, they left and went on the journey of a lifetime to find the baby Jesus in Bethlehem's manger. I was always impressed that they came bearing gifts. They realized that this baby was something special, though they never could have totally understood exactly how special. But when they came, they brought their gifts, not so much to the baby Jesus, but as an offering to God. You see, these men understood first of all where their blessings and where their resources had come from. In addition to their obedience in following God's word to take the journey to Bethlehem, they also understood that their offering to God was also an act of obedience, as well as gratitude. Lastly, I am sure they realized that their gifts would be used by God to bless others. These men were not only close to God and close enough to hear His voice, they also understood how God worked.

I know many of you will have a difficult time this Christmas because of a lack of finances. I understand many right now are facing very difficult situations. To you I say, find the real joy in Christmas, that being the celebration of our Lord, not the celebration of presents. Secondly, know that God has not abandoned you or left you. He is there, has a plan, and will continue to sustain you because He promised He would. Many of you though have been blessed and will have a very wonderful Holiday season with family and friends. Many have taken the challenges of the past few weeks, as well as being obedient to the Lord, and will be giving of your time, talents, and treasure this Christmas to help others. Let me encourage you, no matter how much or how little you have, to do that. There is no greater gift than that of yourself to others who are in need of someone to share the love of Jesus with them this Christmas season.