For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Mark 10:45

The final gift the Magi brought, myrrh, was a substance used for both healing and embalming the dead. While it may seem like an unusual gift for a newborn king, it was perhaps the most prophetic of all. By offering myrrh, the Magi were not only acknowledging Jesus’ future suffering and death but also his ultimate purpose: to serve and to give his life as a ransom. The unhurried Christian life is rooted in this profound truth—that our salvation is not something we earn through frantic effort, but a free gift purchased by Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. The Christmas story finds its full meaning in the cross. The quiet, humble birth in a manger was the first step on a journey that would lead to a final, self-sacrificial act of love for all humanity.

In a season where we are often consumed with being served—whether it’s receiving gifts, enjoying a special meal, or having our needs met—the gift of myrrh calls us to a different kind of life. It reminds us that greatness in the kingdom is found in serving others, just as Christ served. This is the very core of the Christmas message. The unhurried heart recognizes that true joy and peace come not from what we get, but from what we give in response to Christ’s ransom for us. This day, as we approach the climax of the advent season, we are invited to reflect on this radical truth and to respond with unhurried gratitude. We can offer our own small acts of sacrifice and service as a tangible expression of our thankfulness for the boundless love that was given for us.

Complete a task today that requires significant self-sacrifice, viewing it as an offering in response to Christ's ransom.

Questions for Reflection

1. What is one area of your life where you find yourself expecting to be served, and how can you intentionally shift your focus to serving others?

2. How does contemplating Christ's ultimate sacrifice for you change the way you view the demands on your time and energy this holiday season?

3. What is one act of self-sacrifice you can commit to today as a response to Christ's love?