Following the birth of Jesus, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem looking for Him. They didn’t come to be a part of something new or to join a large group of people. They knew He was the “King of the Jews,” and they came to “worship Him” (Matthew 2.2). They came not because of who they were or for their benefit; they came not to be seen by others or to be remembered by the “King” in coming years. They came to worship Jesus. Knowing the importance of this birth, they made the effort and traveled a long distance. When the God-given star they had followed stopped over the place where Jesus was, the wise men “rejoiced exceedingly with great joy” (2.10). They delighted in knowing they had come into the presence of the King. They rejoiced – they gave God no little praise, but exceedingly rejoiced in coming to His earthly Throne.
“And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshipped Him” (2.11). They acknowledged His authority; they submitted to His supremacy; they had joy in His presence; they recognized His greatness – they saw Him as King. “Then opening their treasures, they offered Him gifts, gold, frankincense, and myrrh” (2.11). They presented Him with treasures, not trinkets; they gave Him what had value, not meaningless oblations; they gave from a heart-rooted desire to honor Him, and not out of obligation. They worshiped and praised the Lord as they had been led to the manger. How do we worship? Do we realize He has led us to His Cross and Throne; do we desire to come to Christ and make great effort to worship Him; are we filled with joy in His presence, seeing Him as the King of kings and Lord of lords; do we humble ourselves before Him, submitting to His full authority over us; do we give Him our treasures, ourselves? May our worship be Christ-centered, pure, filled with meaning, and rooted in love for our Lord.
Having great joy in Christ – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry
My Morning Desk 