Gifts From the King

Gifts From the King

by Kim Larsen

Matthew 2:11 “and when they had 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 gifts to Him; gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”

We notice here that apparently the wise men came at a later time then the manger scene that we so often associate with the birth of Christ. The scripture says that they came into the house. This also makes sense then, that Herod would kill all the babies that were 2 and under to try to get rid of the young child who was going to be the King. These gifts that were brought were of special importance.

I did not realize this until my dear friend who uses essential oils shared the special oils with me. Myrrh was important in biblical times as it was used as a spice, a natural remedy and to purify the dead. It is commonly used today for its potent antioxidant activity. It also fights certain types of parasitic infections. Frankincense can offer a variety of health benefits, including helping relieve stress and anxiety, and reducing pain and inflammation, boosting immunity and even helping to fight cancer.

Along with gold, these three gifts would have been extremely useful for the young child and His family during His early life. Any number of infections could have jeopardized his mission. What a privilege of ministry to those wise men from the East, to have laid these gifts at the feet of Jesus.

We also shall bring our gifts to Him, our gold and silver, our most precious earthly possessions, our highest mental and spiritual endowments will be freely devoted to Him who loved us and gave Himself for us. When we bring what we have to Him, the Holy Spirit also endows us with gifts. Love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness and faithfulness. Gal 5:22 These sought after gifts God is eager to distribute to those who give their all to Him, and rely on Him to sync our lives with His.

So, in this season of gift giving let’s not forget the most important gift to all mankind. God’s gift of His Son into this sin sick world. As we grow closer to Him our lives will look more like Jesus’ and less like our own. Who wouldn’t want to receive the very best gifts from our King?