And when the magi came into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:11)
Picture the scene: Guided by prophetic writings and a star, the magi (a caste of royal wisdom-seekers) and their entourage have traveled hundreds of miles from the east to find the One born “King of the Jews.” When they finally find Him at a house in Bethlehem, they fall to the ground and worship Him! Pause long enough to get the full impact. Grown men! In regal robes! On the ground, worshiping!
And what are we to make of their gifts? Most understand them as lavish offerings and gifts befitting a king: gold as a valuable, frankincense as a perfume, and myrrh as an anointing oil. Some also see in these gifts a spiritual meaning: gold symbolizes His kingship, frankincense (an incense) speaks of His priesthood, and myrrh (an embalming oil) foreshadows His death.
When I reflect on their example I’m left with these soul-searching questions:
And what are we to make of their gifts? Most understand them as lavish offerings and gifts befitting a king: gold as a valuable, frankincense as a perfume, and myrrh as an anointing oil. Some also see in these gifts a spiritual meaning: gold symbolizes His kingship, frankincense (an incense) speaks of His priesthood, and myrrh (an embalming oil) foreshadows His death.
When I reflect on their example I’m left with these soul-searching questions:
* Is He my King and Sovereign? Is He today?
* What is my typical posture before Him?
* Am I regularly bringing Him gifts?
* Are they costly?
How about you?
Merry Christmas,
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