“They came to the house where the child was and saw him with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. They opened their gifts and gave him treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11 (NCV)
When the wise men went in search of the promised Savior, they intended to give him the best they had—their best tangible gifts along with their gratitude, honor, worship, and love. The wise men came to see Jesus for the right reasons.
Many people today come to God when they need something—but they’re not actually there to love or worship him. They think of God as their genie in a bottle, someone they can summon in prayer and expect to give them whatever they want. The problem with that thinking is this: God does not exist for you; you exist for him.
Here’s what happened when the wise men arrived in Bethlehem: “They came to the house where the child was and saw him with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. They opened their gifts and gave him treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11 NCV).
Not only did they worship him, but they also gave Jesus “treasures”—the best they had. They didn’t give him their leftovers or something worthless. Their gifts were costly and meaningful. The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh had significant symbolism.
Gold was a gift for kings. In ancient times, if you were granted an audience with a king, you brought a tribute of gold. With this gift, the wise men acknowledged Jesus as King.
Frankincense was for worshipping God. This incense was used by the Jewish leaders in the temple as part of their worship practices. With this gift, the wise men acknowledged Jesus as the one true God who was worthy of their worship.
Myrrh was used for the dead—a most unusual gift for a baby. This spice was used in ancient times to embalm dead bodies. With this gift, the wise men acknowledged Jesus as the Savior who came to die.
Jesus did not come to earth simply to live. He came to earth to die for your sins so you can be forgiven, live a new life, and go to heaven.
As you seek Jesus this Christmas, learn from the wise men who sought Jesus for the right reasons. Worship him as King of kings, Lord of lords and Savior of the world and give him the best you have. He is worthy of your worship.
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