After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Matthew 2:11
Growing up in India, Christmas was synonymous with the spirit of sharing, especially for my parents. My mother would meticulously prepare an array of treats and snacks in advance, ready to be distributed to our neighbours on Christmas Day. I vividly recall returning from the Christmas church service to find people waiting outside our home, eagerly anticipating the treats. Although my parents were not affluent, they generously shared their food with those less fortunate, seizing the opportunity to convey the true meaning of the season. Remarkably, they have preserved this tradition to this day, embodying the essence of giving each Christmas.
Christmas is a time deeply associated with the traditions of giving and sharing. In Matthew 2:11, we read about the Magi, men of means who journeyed from distant lands to behold the newborn King. Upon their arrival, they did something extraordinary—they opened their treasures and presented the baby Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These offerings were not mere tokens of respect but symbolized the reverence and love the Magi had for the child. Their act of giving teaches a profound lesson about the heart of Christmas. Genuine sharing transcends the mere exchange of material gifts. Instead, it is about offering what we cherish most with love and reverence. Just as the Magi shared their treasures with Jesus, we too are called to share our blessings with others, reflecting God’s love in all that we do.
This season let us ponder how we can extend our generosity beyond just presents. Can we dedicate time to someone who is lonely? Can we lend a hand to those in need? Can we offer words of encouragement and love to those around us? By giving in these simple ways, we mirror the generosity of the Magi and, more importantly, the boundless love of God, who gave us the greatest gift of all—his Son.
As we share this Christmas, let us do so with hearts overflowing with love and gratitude, recognizing that in giving we are not only participating in the true spirit of the season but sharing God’s love with those around us.
Our Father above, from whom comes every good and perfect gift, thank you for your generosity to us. Help your people, filled with your Spirit, to increasingly mimic this grace to those you place around us.
Mani Kunadian
* Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from the New American Standard Bible, ©The Lockman Foundation, 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1995. Used by permission.
** The above was taken from Glory to God in the Highest: A Christmas Devotional (Oakville: Proclamation, 2024).
By job title, Alice is the office administrator at Oakridge. But her behind-the-scenes efforts go far beyond that! She is actively involved in the leadership team for the Tuesday evening women's bible study, she is on the mission committee, and she has recently both stepped into the leadership of church bridal and baby shower celebrations, and started teaching in our Ozone kids program. Oh, and if you see any special seasonal or holiday decorations around the church, it's a safe bet that Alice was involved!