Session 18

I can give my heart to Him

From A Celebration of Advent: A 25-Day Devotional

Jesus was probably one or two years old when the wise men arrived. Though Jesus was unable to do anything for them, they were overjoyed to see Him and showered Him with gifts fit for royalty. The wise men celebrated Jesus purely for who He is— a miracle child and promised king. Jesus had yet to heal a single person or preach a single message. 

“And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” - Matthew 2:11

God is pleased when we acknowledge the good things He does for us. But suppose God never does another thing for us, He would still be worthy of worship. 

Romans 12:1 tells us, “True and proper worship is to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” Worship is a life lived for the Lord. Worship is willingly surrendering to God’s plan for our lives every day. When we do, we give Jesus the greatest gift of all — a heart devoted to Him alone. 

In her poem, “In the Bleak Midwinter,” Christina Rossetti writes: 

What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;
If I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;
Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart.

Of course, we are thankful for all that He has done and will do for us. But for today, let’s give our hearts fully to Jesus and follow the lead of the wise men who praised Jesus simply for who He is— the King of kings. 

Reflect: 

• What happens in your heart and mind when you praise God for His provision versus praise God for who He is? 
• What do you love about Jesus? Tell Him.