Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned win a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. (Matthew 2:1-12 ESV).
Today we revisit the story of the Magi who came a long way from the east to worship Jesus. They came bearing costly gifts: “gold, frankincense, and myrrh” (v.12). So much has been said about these men who traveled such a distance to find and worship this new king announced with this bright star. While there have been scores of books written about them, today I want to simply focus on the fact that they truly were “wise” men.
The contemporary song “Christmas Offering” retells the Christmas story in a way that focuses on offerings of praise, joy, and worship. Beginning with the shepherds and the Magi going to find the new King, this song points out that they honor Jesus with worship some including extravagant gifts. It calls to mind the truth that we are also directed to “present” gifts to Him. The Apostle Paul simply states: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies bas a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1 ESV).
Throughout Scripture, God calls his people to truly worship him. In view of God’s mercy for us, we are called to offer ourselves “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” When we worship—as a community or individually—we are praising God for who he is and what he has done. And we can do this with our whole life, bringing “true and proper worship” to Christ our King. Even if you are unable to attend a church service, you can still worship and praise Him this season. Be a wise man!