The Sacrifice of Worship

Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?

We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.

Matthew 2:2

The Magi set out on a journey to worship the newborn king. This journey was no easy task. Some say they traveled over 700 miles. Tradition tells us they traveled on camels, but any means of travel in that day for that distance would have been extremely difficult. 

The journey to worship Jesus resulted in great sacrifice to the Magi. It required a sacrifice of time, taking months to reach their destination. It involved financial sacrifice. The cost of supplies for survival on their journey would have been great, as well as the cost of the gifts presented to the newborn king. The journey involved sacrifice of comfort. Think of the traveling conditions, being exposed to the elements, and the potential danger from robbers.  

Just as the Magi’s worship of Jesus required sacrifice, so our worship of Jesus requires sacrifice. Worship requires a sacrifice of time. This is Christmas week. Your “to do list” is very long. Surely, your time on your knees lifting praise and thanksgiving or your time spent reading and meditating upon God’s Word is a pleasing sacrifice to the Lord. 

Worship requires a sacrifice of our treasures and possessions. Yet, we devoted followers willingly give back to the Lord that which He has given to us. Worship requires a sacrifice of comfort as we boldly proclaim Jesus before unbelievers. And worship involves a daily sacrifice of praise. (Hebrews 13:15)

Yes, the Magi sacrificed to journey to Jesus, but think of what they gained! They gained an audience with God Incarnate. They gained an opportunity to express honor to the KING OF KINGS. Through their gifts they had a part in supporting the Holy One of God. And so, they teach us a valuable lesson:

 Sacrificial worship of Jesus leads to exceedingly abundant gain. 

How can you testify that what you have gained through worship of Jesus far exceeds that which you have given?

Jan Burkhart