December 24, 2024

The wise men come to meet the new born Messiah.  These men were not likely Kings but rather scholars/astrologers  Their connection with the prophecies would go back to Daniel and his time in Babylon and Persia. They were not Jewish but they were aware of the prophecies and they were seeking the truth.  The gifts may have seemed unusual for a baby, but they were connected to Jesus' identity. Gold was the proper gift for a KING.  This was a significant gift for a family that was most likely fairly poor.  The Frankincense is connected with the fragrant offerings the priests would burn in the temple.  It can symbolize Jesus role as PRIEST.  Myrrh was used in embalming bodies upon their death.  The gift of myrrh would point forward to Jesus' sacrificial death.