It Starts Small

¹¹ Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Matthew 2:11

Everyday detail surrounding Christ’s birth is profoundly significant. Just like a magnificent masterpiece painted with countless vibrant brushstrokes, each element comes together to reveal something utterly precious and transformative. We must take the time to behold the resplendent beauty of the main subject. Yet, at times; however, we must pause and immerse ourselves in the more subtle nuances in order to truly appreciate the full glory of Christmas.

This is exactly what we’re going to immerse ourselves in for the next three days, as we passionately delve into each of the three magnificent gifts brought to Jesus by the wise men. These gifts hold profound significance, infusing rich layers and vibrant depth into the beautiful tapestry of Christ’s identity and mission.

Gold.

The first magnificent gift presented was gold. At this juncture of the Christmas story, Jesus is not just a newborn babe; He is a spirited toddler. Imagine the wonder and the perplexity for those wise men who journeyed from the far-off, exotic East, as they humbly knelt before a child and bestowed upon Him gold. It feels so wonderfully out of place, doesn’t it? What can a toddler possibly do with gold? Yet, this gift was strikingly appropriate for several compelling reasons.

On the practical side of things, this incredible gift opened the door for Jesus’ family to set off on an unexpected adventure filled with divine purpose. Unbeknownst to them at that moment, God was orchestrating their miraculous relocation to Egypt (Matthew 2:13). Anyone who has ever moved can attest to the daunting expenses involved. A journey of this magnitude would demand financial resources far beyond this couple’s grasp. Yet, in His infinite wisdom, God fully understood their impending need. He provided the precious gold. This enabled them to step boldly into His glorious plan for their lives.

Another reason for their visit was the undeniable truth that this was the ultimate gift! These wise men didn’t merely see a toddler; they beheld a King—the King! We are certain of this because when they first arrived, their sole purpose was to honor the King (Matthew 2:2). In their hearts and minds, there was no doubt regarding Jesus’ identity; He was the anointed and divinely chosen King of God’s people. He embodied divine royalty, and all power and authority radiated from Him!

Only a gift of the greatest value would be fitting for a King. Although much about modern society has transformed since Biblical times, one truth remains unmistakably clear: the unparalleled worth of gold. Gold’s revered status has endured through the ages, standing as the most precious substance on earth. Personal fortunes and the very fabric of global economies are intricately woven around gold’s immense value. Even the phrase “gold standard” resonates deeply, reminding us that gold reigns supreme as the epitome of worldly value and opulence.

In giving gifts, the wise men were making an impassioned proclamation. It was a bold declaration. It revealed their recognition, acceptance, and surrender to Jesus as the unparalleled power and authority on earth. Their gold was merely a faint glimmer of His immense worth. It represented the utmost tribute they could offer in reverence to His majesty and supremacy.

Our familiarity with Jesus can sometimes cloud our perception of His unparalleled supremacy. The intimacy we share with the Almighty enriches our bond with Him. However, it can also dull our recognition of His immense worth. Even as a toddler, He shone brighter than gold! We should remind ourselves of the regal gift of gold bestowed upon Him. This will help us fervently reclaim that profound sense of awe. Let’s also reignite our wonder and reverence for Him.

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© Kimberlee Smith 2026 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.