So We Worship

Matthew 2:11(NIV) —

‘On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.’

We give gifts all the time: Christmas, birthdays, valentines, and sometimes just because we feel like it. Gifts are important. They communicate value, they communicate affection, they communicate love. And if you choose well, they communicate that you really know someone. You understand them; you know what’s important to them. 

A new star rose in the sky, and the wise men knew this meant one thing: a new king had been born. They travelled many miles, gifts in hand, to meet the new-born king. But what gift is fit for a king? Toys just aren’t going to cut it. It says they brought their treasures, gifts of great worth: Gold, frankincense and myrrh. A token of their adoration. 

This part of the story can leave us feeling humbled or inadequate. As the carol says ‘What can I give him? Poor as I am’. I have no treasures, no expensive gifts to bring the king of kings. What could I possibly bring that would do him justice? What kind of gift would Jesus desire?

Whilst the nativity story focuses on the wise men's gifts of grandeur, the most important, most treasured gift is found hidden in the line before - ‘they bowed down and worshipped him’. Jesus desires our worship above all else. Our true and proper worship, where we give fully of ourselves so that we bring him praise and glory. Humbling ourselves before him, we recognise his holiness and majesty. 

Take a moment today, be still, and fix your eyes upon Jesus, the Son given for us. Kneel at his feet and give your heart afresh to him. 

‘But what can I give him? - Give him my heart.’ 

Prayer - Jesus, today I give you my heart in worship. You are worthy to be praised. Thank you that you meet me in this space. 

Song recommendation: In The Bleak Midwinter, Gratitude - Brandon Lake