“They presented Him gifts”
SCRIPTURE READINGS: MATTHEW 2:11
Thought for the Day
Christmas, for many, is a time of giving and receiving gifts. The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas has several historical and symbolic reasons:
- Gifts to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
- Gifts to demonstrate generosity and love.
- Gifts as obligations of reciprocity.
- To follow historical and cultural traditions.
The tradition of giving gifts varies from one culture to another and can encompass a wide range of motivations and expressions of goodwill. What was my motivation for giving this season?
Lesson and Meditation For The Day
The reference to “They presented unto him gifts–gold, frankincense, and myrrh” draws from the biblical account of the Wise Men presenting gifts to the baby Jesus. In this context:
- “Bring your gifts of gold” suggests offering one’s material possessions and financial resources as an act of devotion or charity.
- “Bring your frankincense” signifies dedicating one’s life and efforts to a noble and meaningful purpose, symbolizing commitment and service.
- “Bring your myrrh” underscores the importance of offering sympathy, understanding, and practical assistance to those in need, emphasizing compassion and support for others.
The message encourages individuals to lay their resources, commitment, and compassion before Jesus, allowing these aspects of themselves to be used for benevolent and meaningful purposes. It reflects a call to selflessness and a reminder of the value of generosity, dedication, and empathy in a spiritual or moral context.
Prayer For The Day
I pray that YOU, my LORD, will search my heart and show me the true motivation of my giving this season. Convict me as I reflect on my selflessness and selfishness and remind me of the value of true generosity, love, and giving to others, as I reflect on the greatest gift of all YOUR SON.
