Nougat 27

What’s the best gift you have ever received? What made/makes it so precious to you? How do those questions influence your reflection on today’s Holy Nougat?

“And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Babies are a big deal in our times. It’s not uncommon to have preparation parties hosted by the soon-to-be parents (gender reveal) and friends/family (showers). The gatherings are usually planned long in advance, sometimes without the parents’ knowledge. And, even if the child was not part of the original plan, these events help to ensure the children are welcomed and possess the basic necessities. In short, there are gifts.

After a child is born, in the JudeoChristian tradition, it is expected that the child is presented to God. Usually the ceremony confirms the child’s name publicly. In many cases the extended family is present, as well as godparents who are not only witnesses to the naming, but are also expected to play an integral role in the child’s development and life. In short, there’s preparation for the future.

In the ensuing years, there are also some developmental milestones to be noted – by family, friends, qualified practitioners and by the curious. Now there’s one milestone that many children anticipate and that’s their ! This is connected to the anticipation of gifts, parties, choice foods and/or special treatment. The nature of the party varies – location, guests, theme, size, decorations and presents; but it is usually a fun affair, for the birthday child and the guests.

In one sense, this didn’t happen for Jesus. Yet we know that shortly after his birth there was a gathering and it was more of a party than a shower. We also know that there was Christening event as Jesus was presented in the temple when He was 8 days old. And, though we are not sure about the exact date of His birth, Jesus is celebrated annually.

For many of us this is a big deal. Many people start planning for the celebrations months in advance whether they are believers in Jesus or not. Decorations are sometimes seen as early as October! There’s even a new tradition of Christmas in July, which I think is extremely secular and commercial.

Now that most of us have finished our annual celebrations and the presents have been opened, the question remains – what gift have we given to Jesus to celebrate His birthday? For that’s what we say we’re about. Considering the best gift we’ve received, what would we consider as the best gift for Jesus from us at this juncture in our lives? We’d also noted that the presentation of the child is also about preparation for the future. Could it be that when we celebrate Jesus’ birthday we also ensure that our gift is also preparing for our future?

So here’s the closing question – *what’s the best gift you ever gave*?

Blessed Christmas everyone

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May all we seek be found in Christ