The Gift - Part Three

This message takes us on a profound journey through Matthew 2:1-12, exploring the worship and devotion of the three wise men who traveled from the East to honor the newborn King. What stands out beautifully is how their ten-day journey wasn't just about physical distance—it was about intentional pursuit of Jesus. While religious leaders in Jerusalem were busy with their ceremonies and routines, these foreigners were actively searching the skies for signs of the Messiah. This challenges us to examine our own lives: Are we so caught up in religious activity that we miss opportunities to truly encounter Jesus? The three gifts they presented—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—weren't random choices but prophetic symbols. Gold acknowledged Jesus as King, frankincense recognized His deity and priestly role, and myrrh foreshadowed His suffering and sacrifice. Yet perhaps the most precious gift they offered was falling down in worship before opening their treasures. This teaches us that worship isn't merely singing songs or following rituals; it's a posture of the heart that expresses itself through various forms—prayer, giving, service, and surrender. As we approach Christmas, we're reminded that the infant in the manger grew to become our risen Savior who defeated death and now sits at the Father's right hand, making intercession for us. The question becomes: How will we worship Him this week?