A Christmas Letter to My Children

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Mathew 2)

My dear Michael, Brandon, and Kezia:

As I reflect on the scripture above, I can't help but be amazed. If you look closely at what it says "We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him". You have heard from me the story of the "three kings". One that was taught to me by my mother. A beautiful story indeed of three "kings" as most people call them although the bible call them wise men but it is supposed that they were most likely kings from the orient (far east). They were certainly men who were of some significance for sure. You know that they brought gifts for baby Jesus. As far as we can tell this was probably his unofficial "baby shower". However what most people miss is that they actually went to see baby Jesus to "Worship" him. Yes, "worship". Of course it was customary in many traditions to bring gifts to newborn children or to pregnant mothers as people of the community woud shower families with things needed for a baby. But notice that there real reason for going was to honor Jesus, the son of God! They believed the scriptures of the old testament, the multiple prophesies that foretold his birth and even the location of where it would happen! (Mica 5:2,4). They traveled most likely very far-maybe for days, weeks or even months. No one knows for sure but traveling on a camel for long distances was probably not very comfortable. 
So in summary-here are my observations: three very important men traveled very far with transportation that was not very comfortable. They brought for Jesus gifts that were considered pretty expensive (gold, incense, and myrrh). The main reason they went to see Jesus though was to honor him with worship. They worshiped a little baby! Who does that???!!! Only those who had the faith to know that this little baby was no ordinary baby. Even though Jesus had no idea at the time what was happening, guess who did? God-the father of Jesus-He certainly noticed and I'm sure was smiling that day. Guess who else was probably smiling? Mary and Joseph! Jesus' mother and step father. 

So when you open your Christmas gifts today, I would like for you to think about why you are able to do so in the first place. The real reason we have Christmas, the original reason: to worship and honor baby Jesus and therefore to honor God his and our father. We as your parents (mom, dad, step dad) and family give you these gifts in remembrance of what happened on that beautiful night when baby Jesus got his first and possibly only gifts. I love you three so much and I'm so very thankful for my three most precious gifts from God- you three-my children. 

With all my heart,
Your mom (mama)