A Gift for Jesus
December 23, 2007
My husband and I travel a lot around the world. In the four years since we've been married, we've gone to about a dozen countries. And it's just been this past year that I've decided to begin collecting nativity sets on our trips. I think it's so neat to see how the different cultures interpret the birth of Jesus.
When I was in Kenya a few months ago, I picked up a very special nativity set. The craftsmanship is unparalleled! The little pieces are lovingly hand made out of leaves. It's very delicate, but very sturdy as well.
I began to really study it after setting it up on my desk here in the news room for the first time this year. As my colleagues would come up to comment on it, the Lord really began to use this little piece of folk art to speak to my heart.
You see, each wise men brings something that's precious to him. They are culturally relevant gifts.maize, a gourd of water, and a lantern. Instead of the gold, frankincense and myrrh of the Bible story, the artisan interprets the story in to gifts the viewer can understand. Each brings to Jesus something important and valued in their culture. Food, clean water and light. These are all precious commodities that are in short supply through out parts of the continent. The wise men's gifts cost them something.
There are also two musicians standing in the background with their legs crossed, lazily playing a lullaby to the Savior. One plays an African flute. The other a little stringed harp. There are also little angels singing over the cradle manger.
A shepherd stands nearby with a little sheep under one arm, his wide brimmed straw hat slung over on his back after a warm day in the hot sun.
Mary and Joseph stare down lovingly at their little baby. Jesus lies there, His little arms outstretched as though He embraces them all.
A few things occurred to me as I looked at this scene. I should bring Jesus my best, most precious things and trust Him with them. I should rejoice in singing over my Savior. And come to Jesus even after a hard day of working But most importantly, Jesus is always there for me. His arms are stretched out to all of us, longing for an embrace.
Christmas lessons learned this year.staring at my African nativity set.
May you and yours be blessed this Christmas.
Cheers,
Sarah
AFRICA MATTERS Main Page >>
A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.
