We Three Kings

In Christian tradition the Magi (Greek: μάγοι, magoi), Three Wise Men, Three Kings or Kings from the East are said to have visited Jesus after his birth, bearing gifts. They are mentioned only in the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 2) , which says that they came "from the east to Jerusalem" to worship the Christ, "born King of the Jews". Because three gifts were recorded, there are traditionally said to have been three Magi, though Matthew does not specify their number. Upon meeting Jesus, the Magi are described as handing over gifts and "falling down" in joyous praise. (Wikipedia)

What were these gifts and what did they symbolism ?

These gifts were ordinary gifts for a king but they were prophetic gifts for the King of Kings.

Let's discuss these gifts in class.

Why Us ?

The Shepherds and the Angels

Luke 2:8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Why the shepherds ?

What made them important enough to be the first to hear the news ?

Let's talk about it Sunday.

Why Me ?

As the father of two girls I often wonder what Mary the mother of Jesus had to endure as she carried the Savior of the world in her womb. The young girl's life must have been full of stress as she received the gift from God for this sinful world. Why me must have been the question she asked herself.

This week I want us to look at some words I found to describe what Mary had to go through as she was choosing to be the mother of Jesus.

Pledged
Virgin
Troubled
Believer
Truth seeker
Humble
Cherished
Lawful
Loving Mother

As we read we will find other words that will describe the most famous mother whoever lived.

I will see you Sunday.