Most scholars believe Jesus was two years old when the Magi reached the place where he was staying, while others believe he was as young as twelve days old. There are many variations from Biblical scholars as to how far they traveled, but the Word tells us they came from afar to see the infant. Therefore, we can infer that the wise men traveled a hard road to find the young Messiah and present to him their best gifts.

Notice, they did not determine halfway there that the journey was too far or the road too hard and decide to turn around. In their weariness, they did not wonder if the trip would be worth all the hard effort, nor did they doubt that they were following the star that led to the Son of God, or even if he was the promised child. They knew that any amount of hardship would be well worth it when their eyes beheld the Savior of the world.

What about you? Are you as secure in your journey with Jesus as the wise men, or do you ever wonder if the road you are on with Christ is too hard? Do you ever doubt if he is even real and wonder, if he even hears your cries? Do you ever feel like turning around and going back to your sinful lifestyle? Do you ever feel like giving up?

Remember that Jesus gave up a life of royalty in the perfect peace of Heaven to humbly come to earth to be born in a barn with his first bed being a trough from which animals ate. He went on to live and learn as a child, grow to become a man who led a group of disciples and taught them the lessons they needed to turn the world to him, from which we are reaping the benefits today. He was betrayed by his closest friends and he accepted beatings and lashings throughout his body, with his blood flowing to cover our sins and diseases. Then, he gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we could be saved from a life of sin and from the destination of hell. He gave his best gift to us. Were we worth it to him? Evidently, we were, and we still are.

Dear Heavenly Father,

In awe and wonder of Your Son, I praise You for going through the heartbreak You did as You sent him to endure all he did for me, and for those I love. I give my praise to Jesus for the unimaginable sacrifice on my behalf. Father, when I am going through my greatest hardships, help me to remember all his sacrifices that provide the wisdom and strength I need to walk through every storm. Help me grow in my faith so that I may pray, believe, and be led by You through every situation. I love you and offer You my gratitude. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

He gave his best for you, so determine today to give your best to him. Even when all hell breaks loose in your life, be faithful to your precious Lord and Savior. Since he went through all he did on your behalf, give him your best gifts by serving him in all the awe and wonder that he deserves. Give him your best gifts today and every day.