The Christmas Story

“The very purpose of Christ's coming into the world was that He might offer up His life as a sacrifice for the sins of men. He came to die. This is the heart of Christmas.“ - Billy Graham

Today we celebrate the glorious Christmas story. But Christmas is only one magnificent scene in a much larger, more comprehensive pageant that God is orchestrating. The events of Christmas contribute a critical component to the complete Gospel story.

The wise men brought valuable gifts to the Christ child including the pungent perfume, myrrh (Matthew 2:11). Myrrh is mentioned at other significant junctures in the Gospel story. As Jesus hung on the cross, He was offered vinegar mixed with myrrh (Mark 15:23). And at Jesus’ burial, Joseph of Arimathea provided 75-pounds of myrrh to anoint His body (John 19:39).

Myrrh was present at three critical junctures during Jesus’ life: His birth,

death, and burial. These events, together with the resurrection, comprise the key elements of the Gospel story.

Myrrh is not mentioned at the resurrection. The powerful aroma that masked the stench of death is no longer needed. Jesus is alive!

Celebrate Jesus’ birth, but remember it is merely one glorious part of a bigger and even more magnificent story. The Christ child is now the King of Kings. Jesus told John, “I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever!” (Revelation 1:18a)

Merry Christmas!

Dan Bolin

President

Refueling in Flight Ministries