Matthew 2:10-11 KJV
[10] When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. [11] 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.
26th December every year is Boxing day, when gifts are shared. It takes its inspiration from the events of the Christmas season, and its history and interpretation differ from country to country and across different generations, but for those who have come to know and personally experienced the gift of God, we see the day in a different light as we celebrate the greatest gift given by God to man. There is no gift on record that can be bigger, better or greater than the one already given, so those who seek to give gifts at this season of Christmas can only strive to extend the love that they have responded to and received to other people. Everyone who heard the news of the birth of the Saviour responded one way or the other. Even indifference was a decision at the time. As it was then, so is it now: we read of the visit of the wise men from the East who saw the star of the birth of Jesus and travelled all the way to see Him. Would I also do the same?
The wise men knew something fundamental had happened. The star they saw was not ordinary; it was the announcement of the birth of a king. There was no transport system at the time, apart from foot or animal. I do not know how long they travelled, but they did not mind the inconvenience or the distance. They knew what was at stake. The approach to finding the king that was born may have been wrong, leading to the death of several children at the time but the word of God had to be fulfilled. They found the king and though he was a baby at the time, the bible records that they fell down and worshipped him. They did not see him with ordinary eyes, but the recognised His person, power and prestige and they treated him accordingly. We also must see Him the same way: He is God, and He deserves all our praise and worship. What He has done has opened the door for our redemption and restoration.
The wise men too opened their treasures and gave the child gifts. They came prepared, knowing who they were coming to see. Do I know the reason for this season, or am I now caught in the bug of the usual, and the annual rituals of eating and drinking? The wise men gave the child gold, frankincense and myrrh, all representing different aspects of His person, mission and impact. Gold reflects worth, whose value is further refined by fire. Frankincense is commonly used as a fragrance in soaps, lotions, and perfumes, and we see it play a major role in several events in the life of Jesus. Myrrh tpo also has many uses, including medicine, massage and embalming, among many others. As you read the stories of different events in the life of Jesus, we see these materials time and time again. What is the thing that I consider so precious that I cannot give up for the sake of the One who saved me? He has played His part, and given His all. What would I give up for Him? God's time of favour is here.
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