“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasurers, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11
Most Christian homes will have at least one nativity scene set up as part of their Christmas decorations. In addition to the stable with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, there will be shepherds with sheep, and more than likely, three wise men with their camels. This is a lovely picture and has become the traditional view of Christ’s birth.
On the night Jesus was born, the angels announced it to the shepherds, who immediately hurried to see the Messiah. They then ran to share the good news with others. The wise men, or magi, were traveling from the east using the star to guide them to the location of the new king. These men were familiar with the stories of an expected savior, probably passed down from the time and teachings of Daniel in Babylon. They were coming, as was custom, to honor the newborn king.
Because of the three types of gifts presented to Jesus, we assume that there were three wise men. Most likely, there was a caravan of several men, because the distance between home and destination was great. Upon arrival in Bethlehem, the star directed them to a house where Mary and Joseph stayed with Jesus. Though still a baby, He was no longer a newborn.
The gifts of the wise men were standard gifts to honor a king or deity in the ancient world. Gold was a precious metal. Frankincense was a perfume or incense. Myrrh was an anointing oil.
These gifts also honor Jesus in a special way as God’s son.Gold honors His kingship and divinity. Frankincense honors His priesthood. Myrrh honors His suffering and death.
What gifts can we give to honor the King? Obedience to His word and sharing His love with others. Don’t get lost in the celebration of Christmas and forget the reason He came was salvation.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for Your willingness to step down from glory to become a servant in order for me to share eternity with You.
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