When we think of Christmas, we often focus on exchanging gifts and celebrating with loved ones. But have you ever wondered what Jesus wants for Christmas? Amidst the joy and festivities, it’s important to remember the true reason for the season and consider what Jesus desires.
One gift that stands out is the gift of worship. Just as the angels offered their praises to Jesus on the night of his birth, worship is a way for us to show love and adoration for him. It can take many forms, such as prayer, singing praise songs, or meditating on Bible verses. By offering the gift of worship to Jesus, we honor him and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.
Key Takeaways:
- Christmas is not just about exchanging material presents, but also about fulfilling Jesus’ desires.
- Jesus wants the gift of worship, where we express love and adoration for him through prayer, praise, and meditation.
- By offering the gift of worship, we honor Jesus and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.
The Magi’s Gifts to Jesus
In the story of Jesus’ birth, the Magi brought him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While these gifts may seem practical, they also hold deeper significance. Gold represents Jesus’ kingship, frankincense symbolizes his divinity, and myrrh foreshadows his death and burial. These gifts from the Magi were not just material presents, but they were also symbolic offerings that acknowledged Jesus’ true identity and purpose.
The gift of gold bestowed upon Jesus by the Magi symbolizes his kingship. Just as earthly kings are adorned with gold, the gift of gold recognized Jesus as the spiritual King and ruler. It represented his authority and sovereignty over all creation.
The gift of frankincense presented by the Magi represents Jesus’ divinity. Frankincense was used in religious ceremonies as an act of worship and adoration. By offering frankincense, the Magi acknowledged Jesus’ divine nature and expressed their reverence for him as the Son of God.
The gift of myrrh carried by the Magi foreshadowed Jesus’ death and burial. Myrrh was a fragrant resin used in embalming and had associations with mourning and the burial process. This gift served as a reminder that Jesus came to Earth with a mission to sacrifice his life for the salvation of mankind.
These gifts from the Magi exemplify a deeper understanding of Jesus’ significance and role in the world. They serve as a reminder that Jesus was not just a baby born in Bethlehem but was destined to be the King, the Son of God, and the Savior of humanity.
Significance of the Magi’s Gifts:
“The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh given by the Magi symbolize Jesus’ kingship, divinity, and sacrificial death.”
The Shepherds’ Gift to Jesus
The shepherds who visited Jesus on the night of his birth gave him the gift of their time and belief. Their presence and belief in the message delivered by the angels brought comfort and companionship to the Holy Family. The shepherds’ gift reminds us that Christmas is not just about physical presents, but also about giving the gift of our presence and faith to Jesus and others.
During that significant night in Bethlehem, the shepherds, humbly tending their flocks, received a heavenly message from an angel. With a sense of wonder and awe, they heeded the call to witness the birth of the Messiah. Leaving their sheep, they hurried to the stable where Mary, Joseph, and the newborn Jesus were. As they approached, overwhelmed with awe, they knelt down and presented the gift of their presence to the infant Jesus, offering him their time and devotion.
“And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.”
The shepherds’ simple yet profound gesture exemplifies the essence of Christmas: the act of recognizing and embracing the divine gift of Jesus’ presence in our lives. Their belief in the message proclaimed by the heavenly host allowed them to witness the miracle of Christ’s birth and participate in the joyous celebration that followed.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
As we reflect on the shepherds’ gift, let us remember the power of belief and the importance of setting aside time to seek and encounter Jesus amidst the busyness of the holiday season. Like the shepherds, may we bring our faith-filled presence to the manger, offering our hearts and souls as a gift to the Savior who came to redeem us all.
Mary’s Gift to Jesus
Mary, the mother of Jesus, gave him the gift of her womb. By carrying and giving birth to Jesus, Mary played a crucial role in God’s plan for salvation. Her gift of motherhood demonstrated her trust and obedience to God. Mary’s gift reminds us of the love and sacrifice that parents make for their children, and it also highlights the importance of nurturing and protecting the gift of life.
In the Gospel of Luke, Mary’s story unfolds as she is visited by an angel who announces that she will conceive a child by the power of the Holy Spirit. Despite the uncertainties and challenges she faced, Mary willingly accepted this divine assignment. She placed her faith in God and beautifully embraced her role as the mother of Jesus.
“Let it be to me according to your word.”
Mary’s gift goes beyond the physical act of carrying and giving birth to Jesus. It encompasses her unwavering faith, trust, and obedience to God’s plan. Through her example, she teaches us the importance of surrendering ourselves to God’s will and embracing the responsibilities and challenges that come with it.
As we reflect on Mary’s gift, we are reminded of the selfless love and sacrifice that parents make for their children. The gift of life is a precious and sacred responsibility, to be nurtured and protected with utmost care.
Celebrating Mary’s Role in Salvation
Mary’s gift of motherhood not only brought joy to her own life but also played a significant part in God’s plan for salvation. Through her obedience and trust, she became a vessel through which Jesus, the Savior, entered the world. Her willingness to embrace this role paved the way for the redemption and salvation of humanity.
Mary’s gift serves as a reminder of God’s infinite love and the sacrificial nature of parenthood. Just as Mary embraced her role with faith and devotion, we too can find inspiration in her story. This Christmas, let us recognize and honor the gift of life, cherishing and nurturing it as a precious treasure.
The Angels’ Gift of Worship
The angels presented Jesus with the gift of worship on the night of his birth. Despite the practical needs that Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus may have had, the angels chose to worship him. This act of worship by the heavenly host emphasizes the significance of recognizing Jesus’ divine nature and offering him our love and adoration as well. Worship is a powerful way to honor Jesus and commemorate the true meaning of Christmas.
Recognizing Jesus’ Divine Nature
When the angels worshiped Jesus on that special night, they acknowledged his divine nature. They understood that he was not just an ordinary baby, but the Son of God, the Messiah, and the Savior of the world. Their act of worship was a response to the awe-inspiring presence of God in human form. In worshiping Jesus, the angels demonstrated their unwavering faith and belief in his identity and purpose.
Offering Love and Adoration
By worshiping Jesus, the angels offered him their love and adoration. Worship is a heartfelt expression of reverence, gratitude, and devotion towards God. When we worship Jesus, we demonstrate our love for him and acknowledge his significance in our lives. It is a way to draw near to him, to connect with his presence, and to express our deep appreciation for his sacrifice and grace.
“Worship is a powerful way to honor Jesus and commemorate the true meaning of Christmas.”
As we reflect on the angels’ gift of worship, we are reminded of the importance of worship in our own lives. It is not just a once-a-year event during the Christmas season but a continuous act of devotion and surrender. Through worship, we can experience a deeper connection with Jesus, find solace and strength in his presence, and align our hearts with his desires for us.
What Jesus Asks for in His Prayers
In his prayers, Jesus reveals his desires and aspirations for his followers. His heartfelt longings encompass a fervent desire for his disciples to experience the fullness of God’s glory and to dwell in his presence. Jesus yearns for his followers to behold his splendor, to be enveloped by his love, and to develop an intimate relationship with him. This Christmas, we are urged to align ourselves with Jesus’ desires, to seek him earnestly, and to cultivate a deep and abiding affection for him.
“Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.” – John 17:24
Jesus’ prayers encapsulate his unwavering love and devotion to his followers. He yearns for them to be united with him in his divine glory, basking in the radiance of God’s presence. By embracing Jesus’ desires, we can embark on a transformative journey of faith, drawing closer to him and experiencing the profound wonder of his glory.
Nurturing a Deeper Connection
Jesus emphasizes the importance of an intimate relationship with him. He yearns for his followers to love him with the same boundless love that the Father has for him. This Christmas, we can deepen our connection with Jesus by immersing ourselves in prayer, studying his teachings, and meditating on his Word. Through our heartfelt devotion and unwavering commitment, we can forge a profound and enduring bond with our Lord.
The Wonder of His Glory
Jesus’ desire for his followers to see and savor his glory underscores the extraordinary nature of his divine presence. This Christmas, we can seek to encounter the majesty and splendor of Jesus through worship, prayer, and reflection. As we open our hearts to his transformative power, we will be awestruck by his radiant glory and invigorated by his unconditional love.
Experiencing Unbounded Love
Jesus’ prayers reveal his longing for his followers to experience the immeasurable love that the Father has for him. This Christmas, we can respond to his call by nurturing a deep and abiding love for Jesus in our hearts. By immersing ourselves in acts of service, compassion, and kindness, we can mirror his love to the world, embodying his teachings and reflecting his boundless grace.
| Jesus’ Desires | How to Fulfill Them |
|---|---|
| Be with him where he is | Spending dedicated time in prayer and communion with Jesus |
| See his glory | Engaging in worship, reflection, and studying his Word |
| Love him with the same love that the Father has for him | Cultivating a deep and abiding affection for Jesus through acts of devotion and obedience |
Jesus’ Concern for the Poor and Underprivileged
Jesus’ teachings reflect his deep concern for the poor and underprivileged. He calls upon his followers to emulate his compassion and to prioritize the interests of those in need. As we celebrate Christmas, it is crucial to honor Jesus by extending our care and support to those who are less fortunate.
Imitating Jesus’ love and concern for the marginalized is a tangible way to embody the true spirit of Christmas. By actively engaging in acts of kindness, generosity, and advocacy, we can bring hope and uplift the lives of the poor and underprivileged. It is in these compassionate actions that we demonstrate our commitment to following Jesus’ example and fulfilling his desires.
Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40
Supporting the Underprivileged: Ways You Can Make a Difference
Here are some practical ways to extend Jesus’ concern for the poor and underprivileged:
- Donate to reputable charitable organizations that work towards alleviating poverty and improving the lives of those in need.
- Volunteer your time at local shelters, food banks, or community outreach programs.
- Advocate for social justice and equal opportunities for all members of society.
- Mentor or offer support to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them to overcome challenges and fulfill their potential.
- Engage in acts of kindness, such as sharing meals or providing clothing to those experiencing homelessness.
By actively participating in these meaningful initiatives, we demonstrate our commitment to living out Jesus’ teachings and embodying the true essence of Christmas. Let us strive to make a positive impact in the lives of the poor and underprivileged, reflecting Jesus’ love and concern in our actions and interactions.
Keeping the Christ in Christmas
To keep the Christ in Christmas, it is essential to acknowledge and reflect on what Jesus desires for us during this joyous season of celebration. By understanding and embracing His desires, we can ensure that the true meaning of Christmas remains at the forefront of our hearts and minds.
First and foremost, Jesus desires our worship. Just as the angels worshipped Him on that miraculous night of His birth, we can offer Him the gift of our adoration and praise. Through prayer, singing hymns, and meditating on His Word, we can acknowledge His divine presence and magnify His name.
Jesus also desires the gift of our time and belief. Much like the shepherds who visited Him in the manger, we can give Him the present of our presence. Spending quality time with Him in prayer, contemplation, and fellowship allows us to strengthen our faith and experience His love and grace more intimately.
Furthermore, Jesus wants us to nurture and protect the gift of life. Just as Mary selflessly carried Him in her womb, we are called to value and protect the sanctity of life in all its forms. This Christmas, let us cherish the precious gift of life and advocate for the well-being of the vulnerable and marginalized.
Finally, Jesus’ desires extend to our care and compassion for the poor and underprivileged. He calls us to follow in His footsteps, as He showed deep concern for those in need during His time on earth. As we extend our love and support to the less fortunate, we fulfill Jesus’ desires and embody the true spirit of Christmas.
“By focusing on Jesus’ desires, we can ensure that the true meaning of Christmas remains at the forefront of our celebrations.”
In summary, keeping the Christ in Christmas involves acknowledging and responding to Jesus’ desires for us. By worshiping Him, giving Him our time and belief, nurturing and protecting life, and extending care to the poor and underprivileged, we can celebrate Christmas in a way that aligns with His heart. Let us remember that Christmas is not just a time for presents and festivities, but a season to honor and glorify Jesus, the true reason for the celebration.
| Jesus’ Desires for Christmas | How we can fulfill His desires |
|---|---|
| Worship | Offering Him our adoration, through prayer, songs, and meditation |
| Time and Belief | Spending quality time with Him, strengthening our faith, and deepening our relationship |
| Nurturing and Protecting Life | Valuing and protecting the gift of life, advocating for the vulnerable |
| Care and Compassion | Extending love and support to the poor and underprivileged |
What Jesus Wants from You this Christmas
This Christmas, Jesus wants you to offer him the gift of worship. He desires your heartfelt praise and adoration as a way of honoring and celebrating his presence in your life. Take time to engage in prayer, sing hymns, and meditate on Bible verses that reflect the joy and significance of Jesus’ birth.
In addition to worship, Jesus wants you to spend time with him. Amidst the busyness of the holiday season, make room in your schedule to seek his presence. Whether it’s through reading Scripture, attending church services, or simply quiet reflection, prioritize your relationship with Jesus and nurture a deeper connection with him.
Belief is another gift Jesus desires from you this Christmas. Have faith in his teachings, his promises, and his love for you. Trust that he is with you, guiding and supporting you in every aspect of your life. Embrace the profound truth of his birth and let your belief in Jesus shape your actions, thoughts, and values.
Furthermore, Jesus wants you to cherish the gift of life. Recognize the immense value and sacredness of every human being, as Jesus himself came into the world as a vulnerable baby. Extend kindness, compassion, and protectiveness to those around you, demonstrating the same unconditional love that Jesus embodies.
Jesus’ heart also beats for the poor and underprivileged. He wants you to care for those in need, just as he did during his ministry on earth. This Christmas, find ways to help the less fortunate, whether through volunteering, donating to charities, or reaching out to marginalized communities, and be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who are hurting.
Above all, Jesus wants you to honor his desires for you by aligning your actions and intentions with his teachings. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by embodying the love, grace, and kindness exemplified by Jesus himself. Make this season a time of growth in your faith and a commitment to living out his message of hope and salvation.
Fulfilling Jesus’ Desires This Christmas
To offer the gift of worship, spend time with Jesus, believe in him, cherish life, care for the poor, and honor his desires for you is to experience a truly transformative Christmas. This holiday season, let your actions reflect Jesus’ love and let your heart be filled with the joy that comes from following his example. By aligning your desires with his, you will find a deeper connection with Jesus and a renewed sense of purpose and meaning in the Christmas celebration.
| Jesus’ Desires | How to Fulfill His Desires |
|---|---|
| Gift of Worship | Engage in prayer, praise songs, and meditation on Bible verses that honor and celebrate Jesus. |
| Spending Time | Prioritize your relationship with Jesus through reading Scripture, attending church services, and quiet reflection. |
| Belief | Have faith in Jesus’ teachings, promises, and love for you, allowing your belief to shape your actions and values. |
| Cherish Life | Recognize the value and sacredness of every human being, extending kindness, compassion, and protection to others. |
| Caring for the Poor | Reach out to those in need, providing assistance, support, and love to marginalized communities. |
| Honoring His Desires | Align your actions and intentions with Jesus’ teachings, living out his message of hope, love, and salvation. |
The True Gift of Christmas
The true gift of Christmas is not found in material presents or extravagant festivities, but rather in fulfilling Jesus’ desires. It is a time for worshiping Jesus, showing love, and demonstrating compassion, especially to those in need. By embracing the true gift of Christmas, we can experience the joy, peace, and love that Jesus embodies.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, it is important to remember the essence of Christmas – a season of worship, love, and compassion. Jesus’ desires go beyond the superficial aspects of the holiday and call us to a deeper connection with Him and others. It is a time to reflect on His teachings, His selflessness, and His ultimate sacrifice for humanity.
Table:
During this Christmas season, let us focus on the true gift of Christmas and align our celebrations with Jesus’ desires. Instead of getting caught up in the materialistic aspects, let us prioritize worshiping Him, loving others, and showing compassion to those who are hurting. By doing so, we can truly experience the spirit of Christmas and honor the true meaning of this special season.
Conclusion
Understanding and fulfilling Jesus’ desires for Christmas can transform our celebrations and bring us closer to the heart of the holiday. By offering the gift of worship, spending time with Jesus, cherishing life, caring for the vulnerable, and reflecting his love and compassion, we can honor the true spirit of Christmas and experience the joy of what Jesus wants for this special season.
Christmas is not just about exchanging presents and indulging in festivities, but it is an opportunity to align our actions with Jesus’ teachings and desires. By centering our celebrations around worship, we can express our love and adoration for Jesus, just as the angels did on that sacred night.
Additionally, Jesus desires us to spend time with him, to have a deep and intimate relationship. It is in the moments of solitude and reflection that we can truly connect with him, recognize his glory, and experience his presence. By carving out time for prayer, meditation, and studying the Word of God, we can nurture our bond with Jesus and strengthen our faith.
Furthermore, Jesus’ desires extend to caring for the vulnerable and marginalized in society. As we celebrate Christmas, let us not forget the importance of showing compassion and generosity to those in need. By reaching out to the poor, the underprivileged, and the marginalized, we can embody Jesus’ love and make a meaningful impact in their lives.
FAQ
What does worship mean in the context of Christmas?
Worship in the context of Christmas refers to praising God and showing love and adoration for Jesus, just as the angels did on the night of his birth. It can take many forms, such as prayer, singing praise songs, or meditating on Bible verses.
What do the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh symbolize?
The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh brought by the Magi to Jesus hold deeper significance. Gold symbolizes Jesus’ kingship, frankincense represents his divinity, and myrrh foreshadows his death and burial.
What was the gift of the shepherds to Jesus?
The gift of the shepherds to Jesus was their time and belief. Their presence and faith in the message delivered by the angels brought comfort and companionship to the Holy Family.
What gift did Mary give to Jesus?
Mary gave Jesus the gift of her womb by carrying and giving birth to him. Her gift of motherhood demonstrated her trust and obedience to God.
What was the gift of worship presented to Jesus by the angels?
The angels offered Jesus the gift of worship on the night of his birth. Despite the practical needs of Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus, the angels chose to worship him, emphasizing the significance of recognizing Jesus’ divine nature and offering him love and adoration.
What desires does Jesus express in his prayers?
Jesus desires for his followers to be with him where he is, experience the glory of God, and love him with the same love that the Father has for him. He longs for his followers to see and savor his glory and have a deep, intimate relationship with him.
What is Jesus’ concern for the poor and underprivileged?
Jesus calls his followers to look out for the interests of others and shares his concern for the poor and underprivileged. He wants us to extend our care and compassion to those in need, imitating his love and concern for the marginalized.
How can we keep the Christ in Christmas?
To keep the Christ in Christmas, it is important to acknowledge and reflect on what Jesus desires for us. This includes worshiping him, giving him the gift of our time and belief, nurturing and protecting the gift of life, and extending our care and compassion to the poor and underprivileged.
What does Jesus want from us this Christmas?
Jesus wants us to offer him the gift of worship, spend time with him, believe in him, cherish the gift of life, care for the poor and underprivileged, and honor his desires for us. By aligning our actions and intentions with what Jesus wants, we can truly celebrate the essence of Christmas and experience a deeper connection with him.
What is the true gift of Christmas?
The true gift of Christmas is found in fulfilling Jesus’ desires. It is not about material presents or extravagant festivities, but rather about worshiping Jesus, loving him, and showing compassion to others, especially those in need. Embracing the true gift of Christmas brings joy, peace, and love that Jesus embodies.
What is the importance of understanding and fulfilling Jesus’ desires for Christmas?
Understanding and fulfilling Jesus’ desires for Christmas can transform our celebrations and bring us closer to the heart of the holiday. By offering the gift of worship, spending time with Jesus, cherishing life, caring for the vulnerable, and reflecting his love and compassion, we can honor the true spirit of Christmas and experience the joy of what Jesus wants for this special season.
Source Links
- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/what-does-jesus-want-for-christmas
- https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/what-jesus-wants-for-christmas
- https://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/religious-observances/christmas/6-things-jesus-wants-from-you-this-christmas.aspx
I’m Benjamin, a passionate spiritual seeker and creator of Verses and Prayers. Alongside my girlfriend Emma and our pet lizard Mulle, I cherish family life, enjoy exploring new places, and am deeply involved in my church community. My love for reading and singing biblical verses inspires every aspect of my journey.