I asked my aunt-in-law. She said no. Hurray for having a Japanese in law. Addendum: She also looked at me like I was stupid.
Damn.. I wish I have that kind of relatives who'll treat my messages like treasure, instead of me personally choosing a gift for them that they'll insult once you're out of earshot
With the loner culture being spread out as much as it is, I wouldn't be surprised if a reply to a SMS is considered a gift to some people. Not just Japanese but overall.
Not sure but words can truly make a difference and that's why they maybe considered as a symbol of gift.