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“Christmas and gift giving. The two have always been associated with each other for good reason.”



A thought by Max Lucado from his book, Because of Bethlehem (with Bonus Content): Love Is Born, Hope Is Here (p. 61). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition. (Click on the book title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

This is such a fun time of the year and gift giving is such a wonderful part of it.  I wonder what Jesus really wants?

Max says, “The magi gave Jesus the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The shepherds gave Jesus the gift of their time and belief. Mary gave Jesus the gift of her womb. The offerings seem practical. The wise men’s treasures could be used to fund the family’s escape to Egypt. The shepherds’ visitation would keep the family company. Mary’s womb would protect the growing child. But there is one gift that might appear a bit curious.  The angels’ gift of worship.

“Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others— the armies of heaven— praising God:

“‘Glory to God in the highest heaven,’ they sang, ‘and peace on earth for all those pleasing him.’ (Luke 2: 13 TLB)”

Max says, “The angels filled the night with light and the air with music, and, well, that’s it. They worshipped. Couldn’t they have done something more useful? Mary could have used a bed. Joseph would have benefited from an angelic escort back to Nazareth. Baby Jesus needed a bassinet.

“These were angels. Didn’t they know better?

“Then again, these were angels. Who knew Jesus better than they? Those who knew Jesus best loved him dearest. Those who had followed him the longest gave him the gift of worship. They placed their love on a pillow of praise and presented it to Jesus. They did that night. They do so still. Heaven at this very moment reverberates with loud corporate worship. ‘Day and night they never stop saying: “Holy, holy, holy”’ (Rev. 4: 8).”

Later Max says, “God is on the hunt for those who will imitate the angels, for people who will open their hearts and mouths and declare, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven.’ ‘The Father . . . is actively seeking such people to worship him’ (John 4: 23 NCV).

I love watching when someone opens a gift and the excitement that comes when it is something they really wanted.

Let’s give Jesus what He really wants.  Would you give Him your worship?

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