“Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.”
– Matthew 2:11
Christmas Eve has arrived, and although it looks a bit different this year, my prayer is that you are embracing the power of the One whom we celebrate and that He is filling your life with the gifts of His Spirit. In that vein, today, I want to talk about the third and final offering the Magi brought to Jesus, and how it gives us a source of fresh hope in the midst of a tough season. While gold signifies that the Lord reigns over the kingdoms of earth and incense represents His authority in the Kingdom of Heaven, myrrh speaks to His victory over the grave. Used as an embalming oil in ancient times, this valuable gift foreshadowed His crucifixion, but more importantly, it revealed His greater plan and purpose. Though no worldly power could overcome the reality of human mortality, the King of the Ages — born of flesh and blood — came to end the power of death in the lives of people. Though it is by far the most gripping and joy-stealing fear to ever have infected humankind, because He died to end it once and for all, we need no longer live in its shadow. While 2020 is proof of what happens when society becomes aware of its own fragility, the wonder of the baby who descended to us is that He gives us life, even though we die. Because He lives, we can endure the worst of times with the assurance that nothing can kill our souls or shake the glory of our eternal destinies! My friend, the King of the Universe was born in Bethlehem, and His life is your light today. When things look uncertain, His Spirit reminds you that nothing — not even the devastation of a pandemic — can keep His hope from prevailing in your heart. Your Savior rescued you from death, and no matter how close the shadows come, they are merely a doorway to His presence. Jesus pulled you out of darkness and into a light so glorious that it spills over into the hearts of others. When the world is cold, His fire melts your fear, and His radiance within you becomes a comforting gift to everyone you encounter. |
Prayer
Jesus, thank you that your glorious light overcomes the looming shadow of death, both in my life and in the world.
Reflection
How was the gift of myrrh that the wise men brought to Jesus actually a sign of hope?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
It is the hope of light at the end of this Covid -19 tunnel. I pray that these two vaccines will be the victory lap to the finish- line.Now is the time to remain vigilant and not let our guard down . I want to wish Pastor Bobby Schuller and his beautiful
family a Blessed and Joyous Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2021. And to the Hour of Power Choir and Orchestra and their conductors warm thanks and appreciation for the triumphant music and singing.To the Voices of Hope Children’s Choir and their director Sarah Grandpre blessings and good tidings for a wonderful and joyous holiday season. To the worshiping community of Shepherd’s Grove at Irvine Presbyterian Church much love good thoughts good tidings and warm greetings for a blessed and happy holiday.For unto us A Child is Born.Unto us A Son is Given Amen and Alleluia