Understanding the gift of myrrh
Biblical background
- First mentioned with Joseph in Genesis, where it appears as a valuable trade good.
- Used in the anointing of priests in Exodus, set apart for holy purposes.
- Included in preparations for burial, associated with death and mourning.
Purpose and symbolism
- Myrrh was costly and bitter, not a celebratory gift.
- It pointed to suffering before glory.
- It quietly foretold the kind of Messiah Jesus would be.
Jesus is our Suffering Servant and Lamb of God.
What this gift reminds us of
- Our condition.
- Humanity is broken and in need of rescue.
- Sin brings death, not just difficulty.
- We cannot heal ourselves from the inside out.
- His suffering.
- Jesus entered our pain willingly.
- His life and death fulfilled Isaiah’s vision of the suffering servant.
- The cross was not an accident but part of God’s plan.
- His good plans.
- God’s purposes extend beyond immediate comfort.
- Suffering can lead to freedom and new life.
- Death is not the end for those united with Christ.
Jesus didn’t come to fix us, He came to free us!
Insight
- God reveals deep truth through unexpected symbols.
- Myrrh reminds us that redemption has a cost.
- Jesus meets us in suffering to lead us into freedom.
- True joy is found on the other side of surrender and trust.