Each of the 11 groups of kids opened a big gift today at Vacation Bible School. The sound of eager excitement filled the air, along with the wrapping paper being tossed out of the way. But, not much after that.
Probably some disappointment. Yeah, definitely some disappointment. The wrapped boxes were all empty. Nothing inside.
The kids weren’t impressed, but I explained. These represent gifts just like the gifts brought to Jesus by the wise men. They traveled a long distance to honor the newborn king Jesus. The Bible says that they arrived at his house “and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11).
They worshiped Jesus. Why? Because he deserved it. He is God and Savior. He gives even greater gifts to them than they can give to him, but they still try. “They were overjoyed” (Matthew 2:10).
Jesus was, too. Jesus loves our worship. He loves being honored as the only true God and Savior. He loves giving us the gift of salvation.
So, what should we give to Jesus? The wise men gave Jesus gold, frankincense and myrrh. Expensive and meaningful gifts.
Back to the Vacation Bible School kids and their empty gift boxes. Before their sighs of disappointment disappeared into thin air, I gave them the good news. Their best gift for Jesus is so big it doesn’t fit in the box.
If they’re like the wise men, bringing gifts to Jesus, then what could they give him? Something greater than gold! Something more magnificent than myrrh (whatever that is)!
Give Jesus yourself. You are your best gift to Jesus. “He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (2 Corinthians 5:15).
Jesus delights in you giving yourself to him as completely and unconditionally as possible. Trust him to open you, the gift. Delight in him delighting in you, the gift. Present yourself to him as beautifully wrapped as possible. Live for him.
PRAYER: Dear Jesus, you gave me yourself and I want to give you the same gift. Myself. I want to live for you. Thank you for the gift of salvation, so full and free. Move me to give myself more fully and more freely to you in all that I think and say and do. Amen.
CHILDREN’S LESSON: Try the empty gift box lesson with your kiddos!
