“And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.” Matthew 2:11-12
God gave these wise men a special sign, a miraculous star that announced the birth of the King. The star led them to Jerusalem, where God’s prophets told them that the King would be born in Bethlehem. They went to Bethlehem, and there they worshipped the Christ child.
“The magi were seeking the King; Herod was opposing the King; and the Jewish priests were ignoring the King. These priests knew the Scriptures and pointed others to the Savior, but they would not go to worship Him themselves!” (Warren Wiersbe, “Be Loyal”)
They presented gifts to Him. Gold representing royalty, frankincense representing priesthood, and myrrh representing death. More important than their gifts is that they worshipped Jesus. It must have been a curious sight to see these impressive dignitaries bowing before a young child.
There is so much to celebrate at Christmas! It´s much more than presents, shopping, food, or lights. It´s much more than gatherings, parties, and school festivals. It´s the celebration of the King. It´s the celebration of God´s present to humanity – the Messiah, the Savior, the Christ.
Heavenly Father, help me focus this Christmas on Jesus. Help me see Him in between the tinsel, the lights, the activities. I praise You with all of my heart. Amen.
