Jesus, the Saviour we worship

Matthew 2:1-11.

I still remember my first attempt at reading through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. My mum gave my elder sister and me a classic reading plan during my first year at university, with a small prize for whoever finished first. At first, I was motivated by the reward. But somewhere along the way, something deeper happened.

When I reached Genesis 6:5-6 and read about humanity’s sin and the grief of God, the weight of our brokenness became real to me. As I continued through the Old Testament, I journeyed with the strong sense of awareness that: the world was lost, and we needed rescue. But when I arrived at the first two chapters of Matthew, I found the hope. Particularly in this verse “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matt. 1:21)

For me, it was as though the grief of Genesis met the grace of Matthew. The problem of sin met the promise of a Saviour. That moment filled me with joy and worship. Christmas is not merely a story of a baby but also of a King who deserves our worship:

• He brings salvation that leads to worship (Matthew 1:21; 2:11).

“You shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21). His name means “The Lord saves.” We could not rescue ourselves (cf. Gen. 6:5-6), so God sent His Son. The child in Bethlehem came to deal with sin and restore us to God. And the right response to such salvation is worship. Just as the Magi “bowed down and worshiped him” (Matt. 2:11), so those who are saved by Him bow their hearts before Him. Salvation leads us into adoration.

• He is the King worthy of worship (Matthew 2:1-2, 11).

The Magi sought “the one who has been born king of the Jews” (Matt. 2:2). They travelled far, rejoiced greatly, and presented their treasures (v10-11). Gold, frankincense, and myrrh reflected honour and devotion, even pointing ahead to His suffering. Christmas reminds us that Jesus is not only Saviour but King. We worship Him not casually, but wholeheartedly.

• He brings joy that overflows from worship (Matthew 2:10).

“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed” (Matt. 2:10). True encounter with Jesus produces deep joy. The Magi’s journey ended in rejoicing and reverence. When we truly see who Jesus is — Saviour and King — joy fills our hearts and worship follows.

Jesus, what a beautiful Name. The sorrow of sin is answered by the song of salvation. The child in Bethlehem is the Saviour we worship. May this Christmas renew our wonder, deepen our worship, and lead us to someone who needs His love.

Reflect & Pray

How has the salvation Jesus brings led you personally into worship? What would it look like to offer Him your wholehearted joy this Christmas?

Lord Jesus, thank You for saving us from our sins and drawing us into worship. Fill our hearts with joy and adoration this Christmas, and help us honour You as our Saviour and King, Amen.

God bless you and Merry Christmas,
Sam.

“They bowed down and worshiped him.” Matthew 2:11.