What Gift Can I Give the Lord, This Year?
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him'” (Matthew 2:1-2).
As I write this, the church year is celebrating the feast of the Epiphany. It is a time to focus thoughts on the Magi who traveled far seeking the infant, Jesus. It is a well known story but reading the Scripture account this year, some inspiration came anew for me.
I am reminded of how God guides me by the stars of my faith in Him.
As one who longs to be observant to follow all the steps that will lead me through the plans He has for my life, I thought of the many steps it may have taken the Magi to reach that most important star in their lives.
They brought gifts in gratitude for having found Him who they sought.
What about me?
Perhaps there are gifts I can bring anew to honor God who steps with me onto the paths of this new year.
I want to wrap up my gifts for Him–gifts of trust and acceptance. If I don’t understand what is happening in my life right now, I can be grateful that He is with me and that He understands how I feel. If I recognize joys or answers to prayers, it is with more tangible “feelings” I can rejoice as I recognize His faithfulness.
He has helped me to wait with Him until He saw that the “star” was in the right place. My steps, with Him, led me far enough that He could unveil to me His plan that had been unfolding.
He is my Lord and King all the time. Yet I do rejoice differently in the moments when I can see with new eyes how brightly His kingly crown shines upon me. I give thanks that comes from a heart that is full.
As I give thanks, my heart to opened to searching the skies in anticipation as I await other promises He is preparing to fulfill for me when His appointed time arrives.
Prayer: Lord, I learn from the wise men the importance of persevering in my journey with You. I already have found You, but You always ask me to go deeper to know You in new ways. As I seek, You can lead me to the special stars of your promises and for the journey, I give thanks as I wait. Amen.
