Are You Offering Jesus Your Treasures?

January 07, 2023

By Brooke Holt

“And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:9-11

What do you do when you are in the presence of a celebrity? Back in high school, I had the privilege of meeting Tom Cruise while he was filming "Days of Thunder." While I was thrilled to meet him and get a picture to document my experience, I can say that Tom and I had no meaningful interaction. I was overwhelmed and thus my mouth seemed frozen or clumsy at best. Tom certainly would not have been impressed by me that day!

These wise men were also overwhelmed at finally reaching Jesus. Maybe their mouths were frozen or clumsy, too. We don’t get that information. What we do get is their response to encountering Jesus – they fell down before Jesus, worshipped him, then offered him their treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Beyond bowing in worship, they offered costly gifts before Jesus. Jesus wasn’t just worth the long trip or the worship, Jesus was worthy of sacrifice. These gifts may have been part of these men’s’ inheritance or part of their retirement package. Offering these gifts to Jesus meant losing something valuable to them.

That is the cost of following Jesus. He is worthy of everything you have to offer him. In fact, everything you have is a gift from him! The Lord calls you to open your hands and to be ready to release your greatest treasures unto him – the treasures of your money, time, and talents.

Reflection:

What does it look like to open your hands to the Lord today and to offer him everything you are and everything you have? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resource:

Jesus calls the Holy Spirit a "gift" who will guide us, lead us, and empower us. Yet many believers don't experience the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This unique Christian small group Bible study provides a space in which we can explore what it truly means to "walk in the Spirit" on a daily basis. The Spirit-Filled Life small group curriculum centers on a 6-part video teaching series examining the life-giving and creative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Begin to experience the gift today!