What the Wise Men Teach Us About Giving

“When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 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 2:10-11

As we look back to the wise men, they give us five beautiful truths about giving. They teach us to - Give an unexpected gift to someone. Remember, these wise men were not Jews, no one in Israel was expecting them, and all were surprised when they showed up looking for Him, who had been born King of the Jews. The point is - Sometimes the best gifts we give are the unexpected gifts. Not the ones people are expecting to get, but the ones no one is expecting to get. Let me ask you, who could you bless this year with an unexpected gift?

Let me give you - Twelve Christmas Gift Suggestions:
1. Give your parents the words, “I love you.”
2. Give your children a full day of your time.
3. Give an ear to someone who needs a listener.
4. Give a hand to someone less strong.
5. Give an old friend an unexpected visit.
6. Give a former neighbor a phone call.
7. Give a kind word to a weary sales clerk, or maybe a candy cane with a ribbon.
8. Adopt a set of grandparents, a student in college, or a military family.
9. Invite some neighborhood children over for some homemade cookies.
10. Get together as a group and go caroling to some seniors or shut-ins.
11. Give an anonymous money gift to someone in need.
12. Give God thanks for sending His Son as the Redeemer of His world.

And here’s one for you – Give yourself time to reflect on this holy season!