Matthew 2:11: "And going into the house they saw Jesus with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh."
As we enter the joyful season of Christmas, I feel incredibly blessed to share with you all that God is doing. As I reflect on the power of giving, I think about the gift-giving spirit that comes with this time of year. While I’m not the biggest gift-giver, my wife excels at it. She pours so much care into choosing the perfect gifts, knowing they will bring smiles and meet real needs.
This year, I’ve been thinking a lot about the three kings and the gifts they brought to Jesus. Often, when we hear about these gifts, we focus on their symbolic meaning. Gold represents Christ as King, frankincense symbolizes Him as High Priest, and myrrh points to His sacrifice and death for mankind.
But this year, I’m reflecting on what those gifts tangibly did for Jesus and His family. The symbolism is beautiful, but working with the homeless has made me think more practically: How can I help someone today in a way that makes a real difference in their lives? What tangible action can I take to support someone who is struggling and possibly on the brink of death?
So, let’s explore what the gifts of the kings might have really done for Jesus and His family. While the Bible doesn’t provide exact details about how they used the gifts, we can draw some valuable lessons.
First, we know that shortly after the kings gave their gifts, Jesus and His family had to flee to Egypt to escape King Herod’s deadly plans. It’s possible that these gifts played a role in helping them escape, as they may have provided the resources needed for the journey and survival.
Gold, as currency, could have helped support Jesus’ earthly ministry. One writer even suggests that a typical gift of gold to a newborn King would have been a small chest weighing over 50 pounds, valued at nearly three-quarters of a million dollars by today’s gold prices. Imagine such a large and valuable gift—practical support for Jesus and His family in a time of need.
Frankincense, valued for its healing properties, was used throughout history to treat ailments like gastritis, stomach ulcers, and respiratory issues. It’s possible that this gift helped Jesus and His family with their health, aiding them in their travels and ministry.
Myrrh, too, had many practical uses, including treating coughs, eye infections, and as an ingredient in skin care. It could have been beneficial in helping Jesus and His family stay healthy and cared for as they traveled to do God's work.
The gifts of the three kings weren’t just symbolic—they were tangible, life-sustaining offerings. They helped save lives, provide care, and support a journey of purpose. These gifts were instrumental in sustaining Jesus and His family during a critical time.
When I think about the gifts brought to Jesus, I also think about each of you. Like the kings, you’ve brought tangible gifts that save lives. Through your support, you help provide meals, shelter, medical care, and much more. You’ve helped establish HUBs across Oahu, where doctors and nurses provide care for people in need. You’ve given gifts that offer hope, whether through a warm shower, a meal, or a chance at a new job. You've helped people find housing or enter programs that transform their lives. You’ve brought gifts that introduce people to Jesus, and for some, even set them on a path toward ministry.
I want to personally thank you for being like the kings—bringing life-saving and life-sustaining gifts to those in need. We couldn’t do what we do without you, and it’s likely that Jesus and His family couldn’t have carried out their mission without the gifts of the kings.
This Christmas, may we all give in ways that move others to say, "I could not have done it without you." God bless you all, and thank you for your support!
Happy Holidays, Pastor Paul Gates Executive Director
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