They saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. —Matthew 2:10–11

I‘ve always struggled to come up with gift ideas for my father-in-law. What do you give someone who has everything?

The magi spared no expense in selecting presents for the baby Messiah. It cost them a pretty penny and demonstrated high honor.

This Christmas season, what do I bring to the Lord, who needs nothing? How can I reciprocate a love so big that it spared nothing? What’s my response to the baby king, born that man no more may die?

When I think of where I’d be–where I was–before his love broke through, the answer comes. I’ll bring him my worship. I’ll give him all of me: Arms, emptied of their grasp on earthly treasures, lifted in praise. Hands ready to serve. A heart that loves kindness. Feet willing to walk humbly with my God.

O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!

I joyfully ascribe authority and dignity to you, and bring my gifts to say that you alone can satisfy my heart, not these. —John Piper

 

*Hey friends, as 2016 comes to a close, are you reeling from the snowball effect of challenging life events? Could you use some more peace of mind and joy of heart? I hope you’ll join me as I reflect on John Piper’s daily Advent readings. In the days leading up to Christmas, you can receive these 25 short daily reflections direct to your email inbox. Just scroll down and look for the “Stay Connected” or “Subscribe by Email” box to follow along! Also, you can find and download John Piper’s “Good News of Great Joy” here. As the season ramps up–and your plans go wonky and threaten to derail your focus, ugh–I pray that your heart, soul, and spirit will be blessed and refreshed with a tangible outpouring of Christ’s heavenly peace!