What is important about Christmas? We make it a time for family and festivities, reminding ourselves of what is important in life. We make it a time for good will, and we support initiatives and charities working with people who struggle in life – remembering Mary and Joseph in a stable. We pray for peace throughout the world because the Angel said ‘Peace on Earth’ (even though peace sometimes seems further away than ever).
The wise men’s gifts are a model for our gift-giving, but I suspect their real significance was simply being there – gifts, a natural outworking of their honour, respect and insight. The shepherds were just as welcome coming as they were, to be there, so see, and then to go tell their story.
Luke tells us the baby’s name and status: Jesus, descendant of David, called the Son of God. Matthew reveals his purpose: Jesus will save his people from their sins, and King Herod identifies him as The Messiah.
Shepherds and wise men heard, believed and came. Thirty years later, others heard, believed and came, and told the story.
And now it’s our turn.
Jesus asked “Who do you say I am?” (Mat 16:15).
Raymond.