One of the most frequent conversation starters at this time of year is, "Do you have all your shopping done?"  The question , of course, refers to whether one has purchased all the Christmas gifts  for his or her family, friends and acquaintances.  What does that have to do with Christmas--with the birth of Jesus?  The answer to that question is:  nothing or everything!

Buying presents could have absolutely nothing to do with Christmas.  After all, some pagans buy gifts for their family and friends at this time of year.  Our culture has turned the whole gift buying aspect of the season into a multi-billion dollar industry.  In fact, sometimes the focus of the Christmas seasons is giving (or getting) the best gifts.

On the other hand, giving gifts at this time of year can have everything to do with Jesus' birth.  Many believe the custom of gift giving at this time of year reflects the generosity of the Wise Men, who came from the east to worship Jesus and give Him gifts, because they recognized Him as a powerful King!  When you purchase gifts, is your goal to reflect the generosity of the Wise Men?  Is it to acknowledge Jesus' words to the Apostle Paul, "It is more blessed to give than to receive?"  Gift giving can be a way to demonstrate the generosity that grows as we become more and more like Jesus as we grow in our faith in Him.

So, which is it?  Giving to be at the top of the cultural heap, or giving to identify with the generosity of the Wise Men?  The former has nothing to do with Christmas.  The latter is the very essence of the season!  It gives the question, "Is all your shopping done?"  a whole new meaning.

Let's pray, "Heavenly Father, Thank You for all that You have given us, most important of all Your only Son, Jesus!  Fill us with the Holy Spirit that our giving in this Christmas season may be an identification with You and your Spirit of generosity.  This we pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.