Whether we like it or not, the Christmas story has been diluted. We have so many traditions and rituals that are based in the Christmas story but sadly, not Biblical. One of these traditions is the worship of Mary and Joseph. Is this tradition Biblical?
Answering that question leads us back to Matthew 2:11. This verse says, “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 and of incense and of myrrh.”
What lessons can we learn from the verse?
First, the verse clearly states that the Magi bowed down and worshiped Jesus. They did not bow down to Mary, to Joseph, to the animals or to anyone or anything except to Jesus only. The records also show that the Magi did not even bow down to King Herod.
We need to check ourselves. Is our worship solely focused on Jesus Christ? Or are we worshipping other people, other things? Do we go to church and bow down to Jesus only? Or do we bow down to others also? These are difficult questions yet we must answer it.
Second, the verse clearly states also that the Magi brought their treasures, and presented their gifts to Jesus. They did not offer the gifts to Mary, Joseph or to others. They did not also presented any gifts to King Herod when they passed by Jerusalem.
All of us have been given by God various gifts, and also treasures. Do we offer our gifts to Jesus? Do we offer our treasures to Jesus? For some they offer their gifts to the gods of fame and money. For some they mistakenly offer their gifts and treasures to religious ministers thinking that it is for God’s glory. Let us check ourselves on this.
As we celebrate Christmas, let it be that the story of the Magi will lead us to search our souls. Am I worshipping Jesus alone? Am I giving my treasures and gifts to Jesus?
Merry Christmas everyone!
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
#SeedsOfFaith
#BinhiSangPagtuo
December 24, 2018