Mary and Joseph were not rich people. We know this because the offering they gave when they presented Jesus at the temple was the one that only the poor gave (Luke 2:21-40). Many people believe that love is measured in financial terms through the cost of the gifts given, and Christmas can easily become a time of debt and anxiety rather than a time of peace and love. In our society where credit is often available, it can be easy to spend now and worry about paying later (and indeed, that seems to be the economic philosophy of governments which is causing so much heartache nowadays.) But love is not simply about money and gifts.
Mary and Joseph showed their love for God in this passage today, following the rules of God’s law and expressing gratitude for the miraculous gift of their son. They understood the principle that the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it (Ps 24:1) and more specifically that ‘every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord.’ (Ex 13:2, 12) Jesus gave us a new rule of thumb when He said, ‘If you love me, keep my commands.’ (John 14:15) The best way to show God’s love is to do what He says. Love isn’t about expensive gifts; it’s about simple obedience to God.
