Nativity scenes depict the giving of gifts at Christmas. Typically this is seen to be the gifts of the Magi bringing their treasures to Jesus. We sing about what we can bring him: no lamb, no gold? No worries – give him your heart. This is a good thought. But it is really the response.

The gift of Christmas is the giving of Jesus himself.  This tiny bundle of flesh was God’s anointed priest, come into the world to represent humanity to God and to provide a sacrifice for human sin. The ultimate gift would be that sacrifice. What could Jesus bring to God in his role as High Priest? No lamb would suffice, no gold could pay enough – so his heart would be pierced. The greatest gift, his life for us.