Scripture Text: Matthew 2:10-11
When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 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.
Matthew 2:10-11
As we study the Gospel of Matthew, we see that the primary intention of the Apostle Matthew is to proclaim to everyone, especially his fellow Jews, that Jesus is the Christ.
Now, let's continue studying the writings of the Apostle Matthew.
Following the statement of the chief priests and scribes to King Herod about the birthplace of the Christ, King Herod immediately summoned the Magi and asked them a favor to tell if they found the King of the Jews so that he could worship the King, however, as we examine the Book of Matthew, it becomes evident that Herod's true motive is to eliminate this King.
In the subsequent verses, we will see that the Lord, through the light in the sky, guided the Magi to the newly born King—Jesus, the Christ. They worship Him immediately, and beyond that, they presented Him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Many Christians interpret these gifts as symbols of Kingship (gold), priesthood (frankincense), and a foreshadowing of the death of Christ (myrrh) for the redemptive work of God in humanity, also used in anointing the King. However, as we observe the writings of Apostle Matthew, he simply aims to convey the deity of Jesus as the Christ and as God, the "Son of God." This is highlighted by the fact that during the Old Testament times, gold, frankincense, and myrrh were offerings used by the Israelites in the tabernacle, and worship was reserved for God alone.
In addition, it is wonderful to see the act of the Gentiles who, coming from the east, worshiped and offered gifts upon finding the newly born Jesus. The Magi's actions serve as a model for every believer of the Lord Jesus Christ. We, too, should genuinely worship the Lord Jesus Christ and the best offering to him. The best offering we can present to our Lord is to give our lives by following and obeying His commands and will.
Fellow believers, as those saved by the Lord, remember that we no longer live for ourselves; Christ must live in us. Like the Magi, who offered their best to the Messiah through worship and giving offerings.
Reflect
1. As a believer in Christ, is your desire in life truly to worship the Lord?
2. If your desire is to truly worship the Lord, are you willing to offer your whole life to Him?
Remember
Our Lord Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Let our lives truly worship Him as we present our lives as a living sacrifice to the Lord—offering everything to Him for the glory of our Lord.
Read
Matthew 2; Exodus 30:24-34; Mark 15:23; Romans 12:1-2
Pray
Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace and mercy, allowing your Son to reach us and save us from our sins. Your grace is overwhelming, and we are grateful. Thank you for reminding us that part of our worship to you is offering our lives—doing your will in this world. Empower us always as we fulfill your will for the glory of your Son. In Christ's name. Amen.
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