How lovely it is to receive gifts whatever time of year! We can be thankful, especially when they are given with love.
Over 2000 years ago, God in His love sent the greatest gift of all—His own dear Son, The Lord Jesus Christ—the promised Saviour to a sinful broken world. What was the response to this wonderful gift from God?
Mary joyfully received the news of this unique gift, announced by the angel Gabriel, that she was to be the mother of Jesus. Joseph, her husband-to-be, willingly accepted this unexpected gift, as the truth of it was revealed to him:
‘Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us’ (Matthew 1.23).
An innkeeper had no room in his inn for the birth of this special gift when Joseph and Mary arrived in Bethlehem—he would only provide a stable.
Shepherds on a hillside outside Bethlehem believed the news of God’s amazing gift proclaimed to them:
‘And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord’ (Luke 2.10-11).
The shepherds hurried to find the baby Jesus and rejoiced to share the wonderful news with others.
Wise men from the East, guided by a star, diligently searched for this precious gift until they found the young Jesus. They worshipped Him and presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
King Herod rejected this most important gift. He considered it a threat to his earthly throne and wanted the young child killed. Like so many people today he misunderstood who Jesus was and why He came. The Bible tells us:
‘For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life’ (John 3.16).
What amazing love that Jesus left the glories of heaven, came to this earth and willingly went to the cross to lay down His life, suffering the punishment that our sins deserve. We need to repent of our sin and put our trust in Him, so that we can be forgiven and receive the promise of eternal life in heaven.
God’s wonderful gift of the Saviour is still our greatest need today. How will you receive this gift?