Pastor Patrick’s Perspective: January 2026
“Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11
The Magi came from the East to see the newborn King. They followed the star, not because they understood everything, but because God had drawn them. When they entered the house, they saw the child and fell down in worship. Before they spoke a word, they knelt before Him. Then they opened their treasures and gave three gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each gift points to who Jesus is and what He came to do. They symbolize the offices that Jesus fulfills: King, Prophet, and Priest.
Gold was the tribute of kings. It recognized the child as royal. Yet this King did not sit on a throne surrounded by power. His crown would be of thorns. Still, the Magi were right—Jesus is King.
He rules not by force but by grace. His reign is one of mercy for sinners and peace for those who trust in Him. Jesus is the King of Kings. As king, Jesus’ rule is characterized by love, justice, and righteousness. Unlike earthly kings, His reign is not established through power or coercion, but through service and sacrifice. This kingly authority assures believers of His protection, guidance, and ultimate victory over sin and death. In recognizing Christ as King, we affirm our commitment to follow his teachings and live under him as Lord.
Frankincense, the second gift, was burned in the temple. Its smoke rose before God as a sign of prayer and presence. By giving frankincense, the Magi confessed that this child is not only a king but also God in the flesh. In Him, heaven and earth meet. No longer must we go to the temple to find God. In Jesus, God has come to dwell among us.
As a Prophet, Jesus serves as God’s messenger who communicates divine truth to humanity. He fulfills this role by proclaiming God’s word, teaching profound spiritual truths, and revealing God’s character and will. Through His life and ministry, Christ not only foretold future events but also delivered moral and ethical teachings that challenged societal norms. His prophetic voice called people to repentance and offered hope, bridging the gap between God and humanity.
Christ is both the One who receives prayer and the One who intercedes for us. As the sweet aroma of frankincense once rose in the temple, so now our prayers rise through Christ, our Mediator and High Priest.
Myrrh was used to prepare bodies for burial. Strange gift for a newborn child. Yet it told the truth of His mission. This King came to die. His royal path would lead to the cross. The One worshiped with gold and frankincense would one day be wrapped in myrrh and linen. But through that death comes life.
Even in the manger, the shadow of the cross falls upon Him. The myrrh preaches that His death is not defeat but victory. As Priest, Christ acts as the mediator between God and people, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, himself.
When we come to worship, we come like the Magi. We bring our gifts—not to earn His favor, but to honor the One who has already given us everything. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Three gifts, one Savior. The child born in Bethlehem is king, prophet, and priest.
© Patrick K Welton