A Christ-Centered Christmas Doesn't Have to Be HardExemplo

The Magi’s Gift of Myrrh

Finally, we come to the third gift we can offer to God represented by myrrh. Myrrh was used by the Israelites in the tabernacle as a special blend of anointing oil. Listen to God’s specific instructions to the Israelites in the book of Exodus:

“Make these into a sacred anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer. It will be the sacred anointing oil. Then use it to anoint the tent of meeting, the ark of the testimony, the table and all its articles, the lampstand and its accessories, the alter of incense, the alter of burnt offerings and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand. You shall consecrate them so they will be most holy, and whatever touches them will be holy.” “Say to the Israelites, ‘This is to be my sacred anointing oil for the generations to come’” (Exodus 30:25-29; 31).

The oil was used to anoint the sacred articles associated with the temple of the Lord, to show how the temple was most holy and should be given reverence. Through this example, God reveals the third gift we can offer Him—our reverence. God wants us to keep Him sacred.

How can we do that today?

We do that by giving Him the love, praise, and worship only He deserves. We need to keep the things of God sacred: His name, His Word, His saving grace, and His ultimate authority in our lives. He is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and End. We must give the Lord God Almighty reverence.

As we exchange gifts with our loved ones this Christmas, think about the Magi’s gifts and what they represent.

Like the Magi, we can bow before our King and present Him with our own gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. When we offer God these simple yet meaningful gifts: our lives, heartfelt prayer, and reverence, it is amazing how God blesses us in return. His gifts to us are immeasurable.

Indeed, He has already given us the greatest gift of all – His Son – Jesus Christ! “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift” (2 Corinthians 9:15)!

Personal Reflection

• What are some ways you regularly show reverence to God?
• What are some practices that you could put in place to better show God the reverence He deserves?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, you are all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present. You deserve all my praise, worship, and thanks. Help me to never forget to show you the kind of reverence that you so rightfully deserve. Amen.