Gifts
The message begins with a heartfelt reading of the account of Jesus’s birth from Luke 2:1-20. This passage emphasizes the humble circumstances of Christ’s arrival in Bethlehem and the angelic proclamation to the shepherds, declaring the birth of the Savior who would bring peace and goodwill to all people. The story highlights the joy and wonder surrounding Jesus’s birth, as the shepherds worshipped Him and spread the news.
Following this, the pastor shifts focus to Matthew 2:1-12, which recounts the visit of the wise men. These men, guided by a star, sought the newborn King to worship Him, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The narrative contrasts their genuine worship with King Herod’s false pretense of seeking Jesus, illustrating that true seekers of Christ will find Him and worship sincerely.
The gifts brought by the wise men hold profound symbolic significance:
1. Gold represents Jesus’s royalty and divine authority. It underscores His preeminence and the eternal value found in Him, far surpassing the transient worth of earthly riches.
2. Frankincense signifies worship and devotion. This fragrant incense, used in the temple, illustrates the beauty of worship that rises as a pleasing aroma to God. Worship, the pastor explains, extends beyond singing—it is reflected in our work, relationships, and daily lives when done unto God.
3. Myrrh symbolizes preparation for death, pointing to Jesus’s ultimate purpose on Earth: to die for the sins of humanity. While myrrh was traditionally used in embalming, its inclusion as a gift highlights the necessity of preparing for eternal life through Christ. It also serves as a reminder of the suffering Jesus endured to bring salvation.
The message transitions into a reflection on gift-giving during Christmas. The pastor shares personal anecdotes about the shifting joy of receiving gifts to the fulfillment of giving them, drawing a parallel to the wise men’s intentionality in presenting their treasures to Jesus. He encourages thoughtfulness and purpose in the gifts we give, as well as in our lives.
Ultimately, the message centers on finding purpose in Christ. While roles like work or parenting may change or fade, a purpose rooted in Christ is eternal. This purpose may involve challenges and suffering, much like Jesus’s mission, but it leads to preservation and eternal rewards. The pastor concludes with a call to invest in Christ, yield worship to Him, and align our lives with His purpose, knowing that all trials will be worth it when we see Him face-to-face.
The message leaves viewers with three key takeaways from the gifts of the wise men:
1. Value and invest in Christ.
2. Worship Him with devotion.
3. Embrace a purpose centered on Him.
Through these reflections, the message encourages listeners to celebrate Christmas not just with traditions but with a renewed understanding of the eternal significance of Christ’s birth, life, and purpose.