Christmas Gifts

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. Matt 2:9-11 For my Christmas message to everyone this year, I wanted to focus on the gifts of the three wise men. I learned some things about the gifts they gave to The Savior and I want to share them with you. I also want to give you a few questions to ponder this Christmas Season.

All the gifts given were costly which showed that these men were willing to sacrifice for him. We also know they traveled a great distance to worship the Savior and may have traveled years to find him and be witnesses of his mortal life. I think that there was more to it though. I think there is a reason why their gifts were listed in the scriptures. Gold obviously has significant monetary value but it was also used to adorn royalty. Did these men give gold to the Christ Child because they knew that he was to be King of Kings and Lord of Lords? (Rev 19:16) Frankincense was from Arabia and was an ingredient in the holy incense for sacrificial purposes. Did the wise men know that Christ was going to be about His Father’s business, and spend much time in his Father’s house? Did they know that he was going to be the great and last sacrifice? (Alma 43:10) Lastly was given Myrrh. This was from Arabia and eastern Africa. Myrrh was something that was used often in embalming the dead. Did these men know that Christ had come to die for the sins of the world? I think they knew all of these things and more. I think that is why they traveled so far to worship him and bestow these gifts on him. We have great reason for rejoicing this time of year because we can reflect on the fact that we have already been given the best gifts one can bestow.

I hope you have a very joyful Christmas!