Day 13: The Magi
Matthew 2:10-12 (NIV) 10 “When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route”.
DEVOTIONAL:
Let's look at the story of the Magi in Matthew 2:10-12. The Magi were wise men who followed a star to find Jesus, the newborn King. Their journey teaches us about giving from the heart.
The Magi gave Jesus special gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each gift had a deep meaning. Gold showed that Jesus is a King. Frankincense, used in worship, showed He is holy. Myrrh, used for burying people, pointed to His future sacrifice. These gifts were ways the Magi showed respect and love for Jesus.
The Magi's gifts teach us that giving is a way to show our love for God. It's not about how much we give, but how much love we put into giving. When we give, especially to God's work or to help others, we are showing our love for God.
When we give, it should mean something to us, just like King David said he wouldn't give God something that cost him nothing. Real giving often means giving up something important to us. This Christmas, let's try to give in a way that shows we really care.
The Magi were very happy to see Jesus and give Him their gifts. We can feel this same happiness when we give with a loving heart. Giving not only helps others but also makes us feel good for doing what God wants.
Let's think about how we give. Do we give in a way that shows our love for God? Can we give something that really means something to us? This Christmas, let's try to give with all our heart.
Prayer:
Lord God, I offer myself to You. Like the Magi, help me to be generous in my giving. I pray for a heart that wishes to honour You with everything that I have. May I be like David, who vowed not to give to the Lord anything that did not cost him something. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
Action Step:
Reflect on your giving towards the work of the Lord. Have you been generous in your giving? Consider blessing someone this festive season.