The Symbolic Gifts of the Magi: Lessons in Worship and Discipleship

The story of the Magi, or the Wise Men, is one that is often associated with the Christmas season. These mysterious figures from the East play a significant role in the nativity story, as they follow a star to find the baby Jesus and offer him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But what do these gifts mean? And what can we learn from the Magi's act of worship?

In Matthew 2:10-11, we read that when the Magi saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. This was not just a casual excitement; it was a deep and profound joy that overflowed from their hearts. They were filled with awe and wonder at the sight of the star, knowing that it was a sign of something significant happening. And so, they followed the star with eager anticipation, not knowing exactly where it would lead them.

When the Magi finally arrived at their destination, they found the child Jesus with his mother Mary. Immediately, they fell down and worshiped him. This act of worship was a recognition of Jesus' divine nature and his role as the long-awaited Messiah. The Magi acknowledged that Jesus was not just an ordinary child, but the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

But it wasn't just their worship that was significant; it was also the gifts they brought. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were not random or arbitrary choices. Each gift had a symbolic meaning that pointed to different aspects of Jesus' identity and mission.

Gold, for example, is a precious and valuable metal often associated with royalty. By offering gold to Jesus, the Magi were acknowledging his kingship and sovereignty. They recognized that Jesus was not just a baby born in a humble manger, but a king who would rule with power and authority.

Frankincense, on the other hand, is a fragrant resin that was often used in religious ceremonies. It symbolized the worship and adoration of God. By presenting frankincense to Jesus, the Magi were acknowledging his divinity and offering their worship and devotion to him. They recognized that Jesus was not just a human being, but also the Son of God.

Finally, myrrh is a spice that was often used in the burial process. It symbolized suffering, death, and sacrifice. By giving myrrh to Jesus, the Magi were acknowledging his future role as the Savior who would offer himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. They recognized that Jesus' mission was not just to be a king, but also a suffering servant who would give his life for the redemption of humanity.

So, what can we learn from the Magi's act of worship and the gifts they brought? First and foremost, it teaches us the importance of recognizing and acknowledging Jesus' true identity. The Magi understood that Jesus was not just an ordinary child, but the Son of God and the Savior of the world. They worshiped him with reverence and awe, offering him the best they had to give.

Secondly, the gifts of the Magi teach us about the nature of true worship. Worship is not just about going through the motions or offering empty gestures. It is about recognizing and honoring Jesus as the rightful King and Lord of our lives. It is about giving him our best, not out of obligation or duty, but out of a genuine desire to honor and glorify him.

Finally, the gifts of the Magi remind us of the cost of discipleship. Jesus himself said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). The Magi's gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh foreshadowed the costly sacrifice that Jesus would make on the cross. They serve as a reminder that true discipleship requires us to let go of our own desires and ambitions and to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, even if it means sacrificing our comfort and security.

In conclusion, the story of the Magi and their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh is a powerful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. It teaches us about the importance of recognizing and worshiping Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. It reminds us of the cost of discipleship and the need to offer our best to Jesus in worship. May we, like the Magi, come before the Lord with hearts full of joy and reverence, offering him our all in worship and adoration.