Devotion
The Gift of Christmas - Jesus is the Ultimate Gift
"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, 'Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'" (Matthew 2:1-2)
The wise men travelled from distant lands, following a star, carrying treasures fit for a king. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh—precious gifts that spoke of royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. Yet as magnificent as their offerings were, they pale in comparison to the gift lying in that humble manger.
Christmas is often marked by the exchange of presents, carefully wrapped and placed beneath glowing trees. We delight in giving and receiving, in the surprise and joy that gifts bring. But in the midst of our celebrations, we must remember that the true gift of Christmas isn't something we give to one another—it's what God gave to us.
Jesus is the ultimate gift, wrapped not in ribbons and paper, but in human flesh. He came not to a palace, but to a stable. Not announced by trumpets, but by angels singing to shepherds. The King of Glory entered our world in the most unexpected way, and the wise men recognised what Herod could not: this child was worthy of their worship, their journey, and their most precious possessions.
The gifts we exchange at Christmas will eventually break, fade, or be forgotten. But the gift of Jesus endures forever. In Him, we receive forgiveness for our sins, hope for our futures, and the promise of eternal life. He is Emmanuel—God with us—the gift that keeps on giving, meeting our deepest needs in every season of life.
Like the Magi, we are called to respond to this ultimate gift. They didn't keep their distance; they sought Him out, worshiped Him, and offered their best. How will we respond to Jesus this Christmas? Will we simply acknowledge His birth as a historical event, or will we bow before Him, offering Him our hearts, our lives, our all?
Take time this Christmas season to worship Jesus, not just as a baby in a manger, but as the risen Lord and Saviour.
Consider the gifts you can offer to Jesus - Your time? Your talents? Your obedience? Your love?
Just as God gave Jesus to the world, we are called to share this good news with others. Consider who may need to hear about the ultimate gift this Christmas?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the indescribable gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. In a world filled with temporary treasures, help us to recognize that He alone satisfies our deepest longings. Like the wise men, may we seek Him with all our hearts, worship Him with our lives, and share His love with a world in desperate need of hope. This Christmas, let us never forget that Jesus is the greatest gift we could ever receive. In His precious name we pray, Amen.
Blessings!
Will Wallace
Principal