Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:11b
So far, we’ve seen the Wisemen have been living up to their name. They acted with wisdom, in that they not only studied the Scriptures, but they believed them and realized that Jesus alone was worthy of their worship. They also brought gifts, three unusual gifts for a baby. But those gifts not only were symbolic of who Jesus truly is, they also are symbolic of who we are to Jesus.
Gold of course is a precious metal, that showed wealth, power and influence, all of which encapsulate the person of Jesus. Now you may be saying, wait a minute, Jesus wasn’t wealthy, He was poor. He is the Son of Almighty God who owns the cattle on every hill and the wealth in every mine so the old Bible School song tells us, and came from a place where they use gold for paving. Plus He was amazingly wealthy spiritually, so much so that we are reminded in Him all things have been made (Colossians 1:16). This was the symbol of the kingship of Jesus.
Frankincense is called the king of essential oils. It holds amazing health, healing and calming properties. The aroma is heavenly which gives the mind clarity. It was one of the oils used to anoint the tabernacle furniture and the Ark of the Covenant for cleansing. Only the Priests used this oil was a symbol of the Messiah, the anointed One and of His Priesthood that He is always interceeding for us.
Myrrh is also an essential oil, but unlike frankincense it wasn’t used to consecrate a sacred object. It was one of the oils used in the Temple Lamp Oil. The same oil that God miraculously turned a days worth into eight, while new oil could be cured. It speaks of Light and Life This oil also has cleansing properties, but also was used in embalming and anointing oil for the dead. This gift also spoke of death and resurrection of Jesus.
Most of us are familiar with the gifts relating to Jesus. But they also remind us that we are to Jesus as precious and valuable as gold. He wants us to experience all the benefits His anointing brings like frankincense and to remind us He is our High Priest and is the perfect sacrifice. Myrrh reminds us that we have been cleansed, we have died to self and are now a living sacrifice to testify of His grace, mercy and love. Now how awesome of a Christmas gift is that!
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