Listen

When they heard the king, they went; and look, the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Because they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country by another route.

Matthew 2:9-12

Think

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold is as relevant today as it was in the time of Jesus. A valuable item exchanged for goods or services. Frankincense and myrrh do not hold the same value to us, though. In ancient times, frankincense helped make temples smell like special places. Myrrh was an ingredient in oil that priests used to bless people. They also had other uses, like in medicine.

They were so valuable that they were gifts given to kings and rulers. Often, they were given out of fear instead of generosity. The ancient world was full of rivalries and wars between this king and that ruler. That is why the wise men bringing Jesus these gifts is so interesting. They see the light of the star in the sky and are filled with joy. The real gift is not the items themselves but the joy with which they are given. These gifts of joy announce a new kind of ruler is in the world — a Prince of Peace.

Patrick Kangrga

Pray

God, help me know that the greatest gift you gave was Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Help me share the gift of joy and peace and love and light wherever I go. Amen.

Go

Is the Christmas light still shining bright in you?

Take that light out into the world.

Live brightly so that others may take notice and be reminded of God’s love and light.