December 7, 2023
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 treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:11
Christmas is often associated with giving. Gifts are given to family, friends, and even strangers this time of year. It’s good to be generous with what we’ve been blessed with.
This generosity can be found in the wise men who traveled to Israel in order to worship the newborn king. They arrived with gifts. These presents were given to glorify Jesus Christ.
Gold was the currency of kings. In their giving these men recognized and honored Jesus Christ as king. Jesus is no ordinary king but the Almighty King of kings.
Frankincense was offered to God in the services of the Temple. This incense produced a sweet smelling savor and represented something that was good and acceptable. In their giving the men recognized Jesus Christ’s deity. Jesus is good and acceptable because He is the only begotten Son of God.
Myrrh was used in the embalming of dead bodies. This gift pointed to the future where Jesus Christ would suffer and die. In their giving the wise men confessed Jesus Christ’s humanity. Jesus was born to die for sinners.
When Jesus Christ returns He will receive gold and incense (Isaiah 60:6). There will be no myrrh given because Jesus will not come to die but to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.
Let this be a reminder that the reason we celebrate Christmas is because God gave His Son so that sinners could be saved (John 3:16). Be grateful for God’s gift to the world and be willing to give Jesus Christ the praise and honor He deserves.
Thanks for reading…
Pastor Ramirez