A Stable Environment: A Giving Environment: Matthew 2.1-12

Things that were given to Jesus...

By his 'parents'

• Life. Without the obedience and submission of Joseph and Mary, Jesus would have never come into our world.
• Nurture. Mary and Joseph provided the stability, the discipline and the daily care that Jesus needed to live, grow and flourish is a child and then as an adult.
• Tradition. The Joseph family was traditional in every sense of the word. They celebrated the feasts and rituals of the Jewish faith.
• Home. Jesus grew up in a home where he was given shelter, clothing and food, in addition to all the other components that were necessary for his growth, security and development.
• Family. Jesus did not live in an isolated environment. He had parents, siblings and extended family.

By the shepherds

• Worship. The shepherds gathered around Jesus to worship him as the Messiah of Israel.
• Wonder. They brought their awe and amazement at the work that God had down. Every new life is a miraculous gift of God, but this one, Jesus, is a special baby.
• Evangelism. The shepherds were not afraid to share their story and their message with other people in and around Bethlehem.

By the wise men

• Worship. The wise men had traveled many miles to offer their allegiance and worship to the new king.
• Gold. Many believe that the gift of gold was providential as it provided for the needs of the Holy family in Egypt.
• Frankincense. This perfume is used as incense in worship services and ceremonies. This is an appropriate gift to give the Lord.
• Myrrh. Myrrh is used in embalming and persevering the dead. Again, this likely pre-figures the ultimate purpose for the coming of Jesus. Myrrh was also used in medicines and may point to the healing ministry of Jesus.

By you and I...

There are many things that we should be giving to the Lord, and to one another, but I believe that the most important is to forgive.

• Forgive yourself all your faults and mistakes. Realize that God is gracious and wants you to be free in his presence.
• Forgive those friends and family members who have wronged or hurt you.
• Forgive those in your church who are inconsiderate and selfish.
• Forgive those who treat you disrespectfully and carelessly.
• Forgive employers and supervisors who take you for granted and abuse you.
• Forgive your spouse or partner who seems to love work or television or anything else more than you.