Two weeks ago, for the “Sing Praise” article for Christmas, I wrote about what I wanted for Christmas. In the article I mention those things we ask each other for— Material things—all legitimate things—but not necessarily the things of God and heaven. I went on to say that my wishes for Christmas were for those things that come from God: the love for each other, especially when it is difficult, justice for all in this dark world, and the peace of Christ for all. (I have to admit I still wanted a ring I admired…)
This weekend we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord—or rather, our epiphany of His presence. “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you.” We hear the familiar story of the star and the Magi—the Three Kings—and how “they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” They offered Him the best they had; their personal, financial treasure, their presence in praise and homage, and their ‘good’ behavior. They did the right thing in not giving Jesus up to Herod—and then they went home another way.
What treasures do you offer Jesus? What gifts will you bring Him when you stand before Him? Your hands will be empty of things—but will you be able to offer Him your acts of generosity, your acts of kindness, love and charity, your thoughtful and dedicated praise and thanksgiving? We are all like the Three Magi in that we must have something of value to offer our King. And I would be willing to bet that what He will appreciate the most will be something hard to wrap.
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
This weekend we celebrate the Epiphany of the Lord—or rather, our epiphany of His presence. “Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem! Your light has come, the glory of the Lord shines upon you.” We hear the familiar story of the star and the Magi—the Three Kings—and how “they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” They offered Him the best they had; their personal, financial treasure, their presence in praise and homage, and their ‘good’ behavior. They did the right thing in not giving Jesus up to Herod—and then they went home another way.
What treasures do you offer Jesus? What gifts will you bring Him when you stand before Him? Your hands will be empty of things—but will you be able to offer Him your acts of generosity, your acts of kindness, love and charity, your thoughtful and dedicated praise and thanksgiving? We are all like the Three Magi in that we must have something of value to offer our King. And I would be willing to bet that what He will appreciate the most will be something hard to wrap.
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
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