December 31
And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:11
The colorful ribbons are scattered, lying curled in the corner, the festive wrappings have been recycled – the presents are all opened, or are they? Have you ever received an unexpected gift after a holiday or special event has passed? Isn’t it wonderful to receive that present, knowing you were thought about, that someone took the time and effort to send it or stop by to see you, because they wanted to? That surprise stays with you, touches you, and you feel the kindness of the giver in a special way. Knowing you were thought about strengthens the bond between both of you, brings you closer and without a doubt you feel connected - honored and humbled at the same time.
The Magi arrived at the stable after their long and arduous journey, to visit with the infant Jesus and his mother, bringing with them gifts of immeasurable worth . . . gifts fit for a king. It didn’t really matter exactly when they got there, the point is they did. They were led by a star, drawn to a child, sent by a king only to find The King . . . and they became connected with this special child . . . to the point they disregarded their orders to return to King Herod with information about the whereabouts of this child; fleeing in the opposite direction in their effort to protect Him.
Everyday we receive special gifts from our God, and as is His way, many of them arriving by way of His messengers - those who touch our lives every moment of every ordinary day. These treasures may not be wrapped in brightly colored paper and ribbons or seem as ostensibly luxurious as gold, but are in fact more precious gifts – gifts of immeasurable value, gifts that honor and humble us, gifts given to us by a child who grew to a man, who gave His life for ours; Who tells us day after day that we are His and cherished by Him. Expect His gifts – His surprises to arrive today and think about what you can gift back to Him.
Father we thank you for the gift of the Child Jesus, and the many treasures You fill our lives with! Abba! Father! We are yours!
Copyright© 2013 Kathleen A. Matson
And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:11
The colorful ribbons are scattered, lying curled in the corner, the festive wrappings have been recycled – the presents are all opened, or are they? Have you ever received an unexpected gift after a holiday or special event has passed? Isn’t it wonderful to receive that present, knowing you were thought about, that someone took the time and effort to send it or stop by to see you, because they wanted to? That surprise stays with you, touches you, and you feel the kindness of the giver in a special way. Knowing you were thought about strengthens the bond between both of you, brings you closer and without a doubt you feel connected - honored and humbled at the same time.
The Magi arrived at the stable after their long and arduous journey, to visit with the infant Jesus and his mother, bringing with them gifts of immeasurable worth . . . gifts fit for a king. It didn’t really matter exactly when they got there, the point is they did. They were led by a star, drawn to a child, sent by a king only to find The King . . . and they became connected with this special child . . . to the point they disregarded their orders to return to King Herod with information about the whereabouts of this child; fleeing in the opposite direction in their effort to protect Him.
Everyday we receive special gifts from our God, and as is His way, many of them arriving by way of His messengers - those who touch our lives every moment of every ordinary day. These treasures may not be wrapped in brightly colored paper and ribbons or seem as ostensibly luxurious as gold, but are in fact more precious gifts – gifts of immeasurable value, gifts that honor and humble us, gifts given to us by a child who grew to a man, who gave His life for ours; Who tells us day after day that we are His and cherished by Him. Expect His gifts – His surprises to arrive today and think about what you can gift back to Him.
Father we thank you for the gift of the Child Jesus, and the many treasures You fill our lives with! Abba! Father! We are yours!
Copyright© 2013 Kathleen A. Matson