John 3:16 & Matthew 2:1,2&11. The origin of giving gifts at Christmas goes back to the manger in Bethlehem. In fact, that really is what Christmas is all about – God giving salvation to us through the gift of His Son. Additionally, the three magi endured a long, difficult journey to bring gifts to the Christ Child. Today, much of gift giving has become superficial and something of a burden instead of being spontaneous and joyful. In this sermon, Pastor Barry shares how we can redeem and restore gift giving as a means of communicating love, friendship and appreciation.