6th January 2026

Three Gifts

Being divinely warned in a dream that they

should not return to Herod, they departed

for their own country another way.

Matthew 12:2

Today's Bible Reading: Matthew 2:1-13.

Today, in the Church Calendar, is Epiphany—from the Greek for “appearance” or “manifestation.” It celebrates the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the world, and so today’s reading tells of the wise men who came to worship Him. These men, likely astrologers or astronomers, followed the star they believed signified the birth of the King of the Jews—the Messiah—and they came bearing gifts.

Mary and Joseph were very poor. When they brought Jesus to the Temple, they could offer only two turtledoves or two young pigeons—the sacrifice permitted for the poor (see Leviticus 12:8).

So when the wise men arrived with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, they must have been overwhelmed. Scripture does not say what they did with these gifts, but immediately after the wise men departed, Herod’s jealousy erupted. Fearing a rival to his throne, he ordered the slaughter of the children in Bethlehem.

Yet God protected His Son. He warned Joseph in a dream: “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt… for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him” (Matthew 2:13). Without the wise men’s gifts, the journey and their stay in Egypt would have been impossible.

As you begin this year, what gifts will you bring to the Lord? Will others experience His love through your generosity? Above all, may you offer Him the gift of your life—this year and always.

Prayer: Eternal Lord God, may I seek after You with faith, devotion, and wisdom, offering You my gifts of praise, worship, and service. In Jesus' name, we pray.