When Jesus was born, the first visitors were shepherds. An angel appeared to them, bringing news of great joy, and the glory of God surrounded them. They witnessed a heavenly host praising God. These shepherds hurried to see Jesus, but the Bible doesn’t record that they offered Him anything, bowed before Him, or worshipped Him.
In contrast, the wise men traveled from a distant land a sacrifice in itself. When they saw Jesus, they “fell down and worshipped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented Him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:11).
The Difference Between the Two
The shepherds, though blessed to see Jesus, didn’t give Him anything and are not called wise men. On the other hand, the ones who worshipped Him and offered their treasures are known as wise men. Even today, many come to Jesus like the shepherds only seeking blessings. But those who give their best to Jesus, worship Him wholeheartedly, and surrender to Him are the true wise men.
Notice this: The wise men, who gave to Jesus, are called wise, but the rich man in Luke 12:20, who kept everything for himself, is called a fool.
The Meaning Behind Their Gifts
The gifts of the wise men, gold, frankincense, and myrrh represent a full surrender of spirit, soul, and body to Jesus. They also acknowledge Christ as:
- King (gold)
- Priest (frankincense)
- Prophet (myrrh)
When the wise men offered their gifts and worshipped Jesus, they didn’t need to obey King Herod’s orders anymore. God guided them differently, and they avoided Herod (Matthew 2:8,12). Similarly, when we accept Jesus as our everything, Satan-like Herod-loses his hold over us.
Are You Wise or Foolish?
True wisdom lies in surrendering all you are and all you have to Jesus. Wise people give their time, talents, and treasures to honor Him, acknowledging Him as King, Priest, and Prophet.
So, dear reader, the question is simple: Are you living like the wise men, giving your all to Jesus? Or are you like the shepherds, only seeking blessings without surrender?
Prayer:
Lord, I want to be a wise person who offers You my heart, my life, and all that I have. Help me to worship You as my King, Priest, and Prophet, and guide me to live fully surrendered to You. Thank You for Your love and for setting me free from the power of the enemy. Amen.
Be wise, offer Him your everything!
SOURCE: PHILFREE RADIO NEWSROOM
