The Wisemen: The Gift for the Gift

​No nativity set is complete without the three wise men presenting their gifts to the newborn Savior. While folklore often represents the presence of three men of royalty at the manger, the Bible’s account of the gift bearers offers a distinct perspective and a valuable insight into how we can pursue Christ this Christmas.

​The Bible does not provide a record of how many wise men there were, but we assume they were from several different countries or nations. The Bible does tell us that they were from the East and were royal astronomers, also called “Magi,” who were tracking a heavenly phenomenon that rose to symbolize the birth of the king of the Jews, according to Old Testament prophets.

From the Wise Men (Magi) in the Bible, we learn to passionately seek divine truth, even when it requires long, sacrificial journeys; to offer our best gifts (worship, time, and resources) to Jesus; to remain observant and follow spiritual guidance (like the star) even when it leads to unexpected places; and that Jesus's salvation is for all people, not just a select few, showing God's universal love.

The Bible does not give much detail about the wise men, but in the short passage regarding their journey found in Matthew 2, it is clear that they were overjoyed and overwhelmed with emotion at seeing Jesus. We are told that when they saw Him, they bowed, worshiped Him, and presented Him with their gifts.

As Christians, we know that when we truly encounter Jesus, the joy that floods our spirits leaves us with no other response than to humble ourselves in worship before Him. Can you imagine how much better it is going to be when we finally see Jesus face to face? In the same way the wise men honored Jesus, so we will bow ourselves before Him and offer our heavenly treasures to Him as an offering of praise.

This Christmas season, I invite you to remain observant of all that God is doing, respond in persistent faith when you are called, and do not let the chaos and to-dos of the Christmas season keep you from being overjoyed that “for to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). And when you sing, “O Come Let Us Adore Him,” may it be more than a carol; may it be the posture of your life.

Make Every Day Count!

This would be a wonderful week to invite someone to church with you. They can receive a free gift; His name is Jesus!

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