Sanctuary Foundation Advent Devotional Day 18
My mother taught me never to turn up at someone’s house empty-handed, and always to bring one of the three traditional gifts: flowers, chocolates or wine. The Magi had a similar philosophy and travelled with the three gifts they considered to be important at the time.
They brought gold in case the baby was born in a palace, frankincense in case they found him in a religious venue, and myrrh – in case the baby had died already.
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.”
Mary opened her door to these visitors even though they were not Jewish and would have been deemed unclean. The Magi accepted her hospitality and believed her story. But which of the gifts would they give to a child who did not fit neatly into any of their categories. They recognised he deserved everything they had to give, so they gave all three: Gold for his position of power, frankincense for his worthiness of worship and myrrh for his destiny of death.
Unexpected hospitality and generosity once more are woven into the Christmas story. As the wise men gave all they had, they also gave more than they knew. May we be wise too and follow their lead.
Thank you
Krish Kandiah
Director, Sanctuary Foundation
Thank you for joining us on this Season of Sanctuary Advent Journey looking at the themes of welcome and hospitality that lie at the heart of the Christmas story. As you prepare your hearts and homes for Christmas, please consider opening doors of hope for those around you. For more inspiration and information please visit www.sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk