Epiphany is observed on January 6th, twelve days after Christmas, to remember the Magi who came looking for King Jesus to worship Him following His divine birth.

Matthew 2:1-2 – After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." (NIV)

The Magi brought Him three gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. They were willing to risk their lives to honour Jesus.

Before Jesus came to earth, people's sins were forgiven through animal sacrifices. But now, because of Jesus' death on the cross, we don't have to kill animals to be forgiven or to honour and please God. But we are urged "to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship" (Romans 12:1 NRSV).

Being a living sacrifice involves giving our lives — our hearts, our minds, and willpower — to God. To be a living sacrifice means obedient service to God — our reasonable service. It is reasonable, sensible, and intelligent because of what Jesus has done for us.

As we celebrate the new year, let us ask ourselves, "What gifts will I bring to King Jesus this year?"

Will you give Jesus your heart? (If you've never done so, you can do it right now by admitting that you have sinned and need Jesus to save you and forgive you.)

Will you give Jesus your mind? (You can do so by reading His Word every day and thinking about those things that please God.)

Will you give Jesus your willpower? (You can do so by asking Him to transform your will to be like His.)

Will you give Jesus your treasures? (You can do so by giving your gifts of money and talent to furthering His kingdom.)

A follower of Jesus Christ should be able to answer this question: How will I serve others in the name of Jesus Christ this coming year?

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank You for coming to earth as a baby and becoming a man. Thank You for going to the cross to be the sacrifice to make us right with God. Help us in this new year to be living sacrifices for You in all the things that we say and do. May the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, our Rock and our Redeemer. Amen.

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About the author:

Sarah Keith <sarah@sundayschoolnetwork.com>
West Palm Beach, Florida, USA
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