I have a thing about nativity sets. I probably have 8 or 10 that I set up in various spots around my home, starting the day after Thanksgiving. Setting them up and arranging the figures each year is just as much a part of Christmas to me as decorating the tree and spending time shopping for my family.
I am fascinated by the wise men. Every year when I put them near the stable, I feel guilty because I know they probably were not part of the Bethlehem scene on that first Christmas. In every Christmas pageant, they still come bearing their gifts and we all just overlook the fact that they more likely visited Jesus as a toddler in a house somewhere other than Bethlehem. The important thing I remember about the wise men is that they brought precious gifts to honor the One they believed had been sent to save us from our sins.
This week I was reminded of those wise men as I opened the mail at Hope Women’s Centers. One envelope contained a check for $15,000.00 and I thanked God that He has blessed people who have hearts to give to help us save the lives of precious unborn children and He has provided the means for them to follow their hearts.
The wise men had a deep heart desire to find the new king. They had resources and riches from which to give, and they went to great lengths to bring their best gifts to the King. This donor’s large check reminded me that God equips us to do and give the things He intends for us to do and give.
I believe that wise men (and women!) still seek Him. I believe they go out of their way and make sacrifices to find Him and to do His will. What will you purpose in your heart to give to the King this Christmas?