It is an annual tradition for me. On First Advent, I place a Christmas star in my study. I love to step into my study early in the morning, when it is still dark, and then see the Christmas star burning. This is how I live toward Christmas every day. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was born in a stable and Wise Men came to worship Him: they gave Him gold, frankincense and myrrh.

After the Wise Men had departed, Joseph, Mary and the Child had to flee and remained undercover in Egypt for a time. The gold, frankincense and myrrh, three valuables will have helped them make a daily living during that time. That is the practical side of these gifts, and of course there is also a deeper meaning in them.

The gold (chrusos, χρυσός, g5557), according to the Online Bible, refers mainly to gold coins and gold ornaments. (Vine)

The frankincense (libanos λίβανος, g2030), is the symbol of prayer (Easton).

And myrrh (smurna, g4666) is a component of the oil with which priests are anointed, is also used in the care of injuries (because of its antiseptic effect) and in embalming a body (Vine)

Using the Strong's, Greek text, lexicons and dictionaries available in the Online Bible, the meaning of these gifts can be explored. Gifts are usually thought about. They should fit the one to whom you are giving them. So it is also with these gifts from the Wise Men.

The three gifts left by the Wise Men are full of references to Jesus as the Son of God, Jesus the King of kings, Jesus the true High Priest and Jesus the Savior of the world. If we put John 3 verse 16 next to it, we understand that Jesus Himself is the greatest Gift that God gives to men: that whoever believes may not perish but have eternal life.

A present is waiting for you
Christmas is the time of presents, let them be little shadows of that great Gift God has given us.

We also offer you a gift. For everyone, Vine's Greek Lexicon on New Testament Words is now available. This lexicon works like the other Strong's lexicons, but has content taken from W.E. Vine's The Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words.

For Professional PREMIUM users, we are adding another dictionary as a bonus gift, The Complete Expository Dictionary of the Old & New Testament - Professional PREMIUM Edition, also written by W.E. Vine.

This dictionary is intended to help study the meaning of biblical words. Throughout the text the most significant biblical words are illustrated by Scripture passages, comments, cross-references, ancient and modern meanings, precise etymologies, historical notes, and clearly defined technical information.

Start using these presents with the Online Bible to find out what God has given you in His Word.

Peter van der Schelde