A large portion of this message is from a blog I wrote at Writing for His Glory.
January 6 is the twelfth day of Christmas and is also Epiphany, the day we commemorate the wise men’s visit to Jesus in Bethlehem (Matthew 2). They brought gold for a King, frankincense for a Priest, and Myrrh for a Savior.
Gold is still precious across all nations and cultures. Frankincense comes from a sap in the Boswella tree and is known for its calming, restorative and meditative properties. Ancient people burned frankincense, believing it carried their prayers to heaven. Myrrh is a resin produced by a small, scraggly tree, which grows in the semi-desert regions along the Red Seea. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and healing agents. Following Jesus’ death on the cross, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus anointed Jesus’ body with myrrh for burial.
THINK ABOUT IT
Wise men still seek God today. “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). What gift is appropriate? Perhaps humility, a broken and contrite heart, love for God in response to His great love for us. Today is a significant day in the United States as the electoral vote seals will be broken in congress. Will you pray with me that God will intervene in this election?
PRAY ABOUT IT
Almighty God, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, we humble ourselves before you and ask you for divine intervention in congress today. Our country has sinned against you and we ask you for forgiveness. You promised to bless those those who bless you and curse those who curse you. Lord, we love you and look to you to expose corruption and bring about justice in our nation and in the world. Save us from those who are out to destroy our country. Lord, the world is watching. Let it be known today that YOU are GOD in the United States of America. We pray these things, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tell Me the Story 