As we near Christmas, we are often thinking about giving gifts to those we love and those in need. During the Christmas season, we often see manger scenes or think of them. We think of the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh that the wise men gave to the Lord.
A fair question we should ask ourselves is: Is the Lord on our list? Are we thinking about something we could give to the Lord? We know the Lord doesn't really need gold, frankincense, and myrrh from us. We know that the Lord owns everything and can make any material thing He needs, but as we think back to the Christmas story, we see a couple of gifts given to Jesus that are often overlooked.
We see a couple named Mary and Joseph moving in faith according to the Lord's purpose. Their faith in God's word causes them to act according to God's purpose in spite of people's opinions, rejections, rumors, and dangers. We see Mary and Joseph committing to God's purpose to raise the child that would be the Messiah in spite of the unknowns, pains, and difficulties.
While the Lord doesn't want gold, frankincense, or myrrh, He does want our faith and commitment to His purpose. This season, we should think about acting in faith and committing to whatever the Lord has been asking of us. With faith we can please Him (Hebrews 11:6). With commitment we show our love (Matthew 12:29-30).
