After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod,

Magi from the east came to Jerusalem. (Matthew 2:1)

In the story of Christmas, it is the story of the visit of the Magi that often draws

my attention. The story of the Magi is our story. The mention of the visit of the

Magi was no accident. It is an invitation to see ourselves in the story.

The Magi were from the east. The mention of where the Magi were from locates

them geographically, yet it distances them from Bethlehem. Does it matter

that the angel appeared to the Magi from the east or to us in South Africa? We

would do what the Magi did after the announcement. We would plan to go and

see for ourselves.

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said

to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,

which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying

in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning

what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed

at what the shepherds said to them. (Luke 2:15-18)

What do you give someone who has everything? I always imagine that this is

the question the Magi asked themselves after the angels appeared to them

announcing the birth of Jesus. They knew they had to go bearing gifts. The

question is, what do they give someone who has everything? The answer to this

question is beautifully expressed in the last verse of the Christmas carol: In the

bleak midwinter by Christina Rossetti.

What can I give Him,

Poor as I am? —

If I were a Shepherd

I would bring a lamb;

If I were a Wise Man

I would do my part, —

Yet what I can I give Him, —

Give my heart.

This is the spirit of Christmas: to do our part and to give what we can.

As we celebrate this festive season, we remember those in our community who

are mourning, especially the Moremi and Sigamoney families.

To all, I wish you a blessed time of rest and joy.

REVD RAKGADI KHOBO
CHAPLAIN