Matthew 2:1 to 2:12 The wise men followed God's star to worship Jesus, giving Him their finest gifts. Learn how the wise men followed the star from the East. Identify the three gifts they gave to Jesus: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Understand that we can give Jesus the best gift: our loving hearts. In distant lands to the east, scholars studied the stars. When a brilliant new star appeared, they knew a great King had been born in Judea. The Shining Star in the East Far away in the East, wise men looked up at the night sky. Suddenly, they saw a marvelous new star shining brightly! They had studied ancient writings and knew this star pointed to a great new King. They packed their camels with water, food, and treasures, and set off on a long journey across mountains and deserts. The Star Leads the Way The bright star moved ahead of them, leading them all the way to Judea. When they reached [Jerusalem](/bible/explorer/place/jerusalem), they asked: "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." The star went before them until it rested right over the place where young Jesus was living. Treasures for the King When the wise men entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother, they fell to their knees and worshipped him! They opened their treasure boxes and presented him with precious royal gifts: gold, sweet frankincense, and fragrant myrrh. Then they returned home with overflowing joy. And falling down they worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts. Matthew 2:11 What led the wise men on their journey to find Jesus? A special bright star in the sky A map drawn on paper A barking dog A river of blue water A special bright star in the sky Matthew 2:2 tells us they saw his star in the east and followed it. What three gifts did the wise men bring to Jesus? Gold, frankincense, and myrrh Apples, oranges, and grapes Silver, bronze, and iron Toys, blankets, and shoes Gold, frankincense, and myrrh Matthew 2:11 records they presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. What is the best gift we can give to King Jesus today? Our loving hearts and obedience A sack of shiny rocks Buying expensive cars Complaining when asked to clean up Our loving hearts and obedience Jesus desires our love, trust, and willing obedience more than any material treasure. Make a small paper gift box, and whisper a prayer into it giving your heart, kindness, and love to King Jesus. Lord Jesus, you are the King of kings! Just like the wise men bowed down and worshipped you, I bow my heart before you today. I offer you my love, my words, and my kindness as a gift to honor you. In your holy name, Amen. Why did the wise men travel so many miles through the desert just to see Jesus? What is a gift of love you can give to Jesus this week (like helping your parents or sharing with a sibling)? Children discover the journey of the wise men, learning that Jesus is worthy of our worship and our very best gifts. Show three small decorative boxes or gift bags (representing gold, frankincense, and myrrh). Ask children what kind of gifts they would bring to a king! Were there only three wise men? The Bible mentions three gifts (gold, frankincense, and myrrh), so tradition often says three wise men, but there could have been a whole caravan of travelers! 5 min Hook & Prayer, 10 min Story, 8 min Memory Verse Practice, 7 min Review Quiz