Perfect Present

Read

Matthew 2:11 “On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”

Exodus 33:15 “Then Moses said to him, ‘If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.’”

Think

It’s easy to treat God like a heavenly Santa Claus, expecting him to grant our wishes as long as we’ve been “good enough,” prayed long enough, done our duties. Like Santa’s “naughty or nice” list, we assume that as long as we’re doing okay, we’re entitled to the blessings we want. But even when we receive those blessings, how often does the excitement fade? Just like the gifts under the tree, they rarely satisfy for long.

The Christmas story reminds us that true joy isn’t found in what we receive, but in who we worship. Psalm 16:11 says, “In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” The wise men understood this as they left behind their comforts, bringing treasures to honor a baby in a manger. They weren’t there for what they could get—they came to bow before the King of kings.

How often do we approach God with our lists rather than our hearts? Do we long for the gifts he gives, or for his presence in our lives? It’s easy to let the busyness of the season overshadow the beauty of what we’re celebrating: Immanuel, God with us.

This Christmas let’s reframe our focus. Instead of being consumed with presents, let’s prioritize presence—the presence of Jesus in our lives and the time we spend with him. Take a moment to pause, read Luke 2, and reflect on the miracle of a Savior who came to dwell among us. The greatest gift of Christmas isn’t wrapped in paper—it’s Jesus himself, offering us love, peace, and hope that never fade. Choose him this season. Bow in worship, sit in his presence, and let your heart be filled with the joy only he can provide.

Apply

You can give the gift of presence! Spend intentional time with loved ones, free from distractions. Turn off devices, have meaningful conversations, or pray together, modeling how God gives us his presence.

Pray

Father, in my quest for the perfect gifts, remind me that the greatest gift is found in your presence. Help me to shift my focus from material presents to spending time with you. In this season, let me find joy and peace in you. In Jesus' name. Amen.