Friday, December 23

Matthew 2:11-12

Janet Chisom

The birth of Jesus was a big event.  It was anticipated by people near (Jesus’ family) and far (wise men from the Orient); people of high power (King Herod) and low esteem (shepherds).  In essence, the birth of Jesus was for everyone, regardless of religion, race, class, socioeconomic status, or occupation.  We are included in that invitation to meet Jesus and can learn from the response of the wise men.

The wise men did two things upon meeting Jesus.  First, they knelt down to adore the newborn baby, offering themselves to the King of kings.  They humbled themselves and worshipped at his feet.  Second, they gave gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, offering their most precious possessions.  They were not concerned with the cost of their gifts, but only that they gave their best to honor him.

As we meet Jesus each day on our life journey, we are reminded of the response of the wise men.  We are encouraged to offer ourselves and our most precious possessions.  All of worship, and I could argue that all of life, is a combination of adoration and offering.  We are to humble ourselves before our Creator, giving God thanks for all that has been done for us, and offering ourselves and our abilities in response.  Also, we are to share what we have, our most precious possessions and skills, with others.

Prayer:  As You led the wise men, Lord, lead us.  Lead us to be people willing to offer all of who we are, willing to share our abilities, our gifts, and our lives with others.  In doing so, we honor the King of kings and Lord of lords.  Amen.