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Christmas in the Village
"[The wise men] opened their treasure chests and gave [Jesus] gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh"—Matthew 2:11 NLT.
The Walanga people of the Democratic Republic of Congo travel far to celebrate Jesus’ birth. Pastor Kizombo recalls his family traveling on foot more than twenty-five miles through the forest, bringing rice, cassava, peanuts, chickens, and goats for a feast—gifts to share with everyone.
On Christmas Eve, travelers gather at a church for a celebration till midnight. They meet again the next morning to worship. Dressed in brightly colored clothing to mark the occasion, everyone sings joyously, enjoys a dramatic presentation, and listens to a reading of the Christmas story. Jesus’ birth is ample motivation for the journey.
In Matthew’s account, we don’t know how the wise men knew to anticipate Messiah’s arrival. Regardless, these travelers came on a quest. When Herod learned that the wise men were looking for “the newborn king” he “was deeply disturbed” (vv. 2-3) and inquired of the “leading priests and teachers of religious law” (v. 4). They knew Messiah would be born “in Bethlehem in Judea” (v. 5) and quoted the prophet Micah (v. 6). Yet they never looked for Him. The wise men did, bringing gifts to the one who is the Gift (v. 11).
Wherever our travels take us, let’s imitate the ancient wise men by sharing what we have with others. May our actions honor the One who gave His life for us. –Tim Gustafson
- What do you have that you can share with others?
- How will you help others this week?
Prayer:
Thank You, Father, for sending Your Son into the world to rescue me.
Scripture
About this Plan
Today, as recipients of this great gift of God, we can keep it to ourselves or, like the shepherds and my grandmother, use every opportunity, including palagarams (a traditional snack from Telangana), to spread the joyful news of Jesus. Our simple acts of love, our generosity, and our kindness can go a long way toward showcasing Christ to others. When we let our light shine, many will experience God’s greatest gift and glorify Him as the shepherds did centuries ago. This Christmas, what you do with God’s gift, matters.
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