Jesus Great And Wondrous Star – Hymn Lyric
“Jesus, Great and Wondrous Star: Symbolism and Meaning Explained” explores the symbolism behind the three gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi – gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The hymn delves into the significance of each gift, inviting readers to reflect on their own offerings to Jesus – faith, prayers, and contrite repentance. It emphasizes that true value lies in the condition of our hearts and the sincerity of our offerings.
Table of Contents
Jesus Great And Wondrous Star – Hymn Lyric
Jesus!
great and wondrous Star,
Both from Jacob‘s line and heaven,
Festive gifts from near and far
On this day to Thee are given:
Oh! accept most graciously
What I humbly offer Thee.
Saba bringeth gold to Thee;
Lord, I give what thou hast given:
gold of faith receive from me–
Precious gold that counts in heaven!
Prove it, purge it free from dross
In the furnace of the cross.
Take the frankincense of prayer;
May it prove a sweet oblation!
Heart and lips shall everywhere
Strive to meet Thy approbation;
Hear and heed my prayer, and then
Seal it with Thy “Yea: Amen!”
Take contrition, bitter myrrh;
O how sorely my sins grieve me!
Pardon, healing, peace restore;
Thou art true, and wilt relieve me.
Lord, I praise Thee! and believe
Thou my offering dost receive.
Meaning of Jesus Great And Wondrous Star
Jesus, Great and Wondrous Star: Symbolism and Meaning Explained
In this beautiful hymn, the title “Jesus, Great and Wondrous Star” captures the essence of the significance and symbolism associated with Jesus Christ. This hymn highlights the three gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi – gold, frankincense, and myrrh – and offers a heartfelt plea for acceptance and forgiveness. Let us explore the depth and meaning behind these symbols and reflect on their relevance in our lives today.
The hymn begins with the recognition of Jesus as a great and wondrous star, both from Jacob’s line and heaven. This emphasis on Jesus being a star stems from the biblical narrative of the wise men or Magi who followed a star to find the newborn King of the Jews. The star represented a guiding light, leading them to the presence of Jesus, the true source of light and hope in this world. It symbolizes Jesus’ divine nature and his role as the Savior.
The first gift mentioned in the hymn is gold. The Magi brought gold as a precious offering to honor and acknowledge Jesus’ royalty. Gold, a precious metal, is often associated with wealth, power, and excellence. In this context, offering gold to Jesus signifies giving our best to Him – not just material possessions, but also our devotion, love, and commitment. It invites us to ponder what we value and treasure in our lives and how we can offer these treasures to Jesus.
The hymn then speaks of faith as the gold of heaven. This precious gold is not material or worldly wealth, but rather the treasure of unwavering belief and trust in Jesus. It reminds us that faith is a valuable currency in God’s kingdom. True faith, free from doubts and uncertainties, is the gold that counts in heaven. It is an offering that brings joy to the heart of Jesus, and it enriches our own spiritual journey.
Moving on, the hymn introduces frankincense. Frankincense, a fragrant resin, was used in religious ceremonies as a symbol of adoration and worship. It represents our prayers ascending to God as a sweet fragrance. Offering frankincense to Jesus emphasizes the importance of our prayers and the desire to align our hearts and minds with His divine will. It encourages us to cultivate a lifestyle of prayer and to seek His approval in all that we do.
The final gift mentioned in the hymn is myrrh. Myrrh was a valuable substance often used in embalming and symbolizes suffering and sacrifice. The hymn refers to it as “contrition, bitter myrrh.” Contrition signifies deep remorse and repentance for our sins. In offering myrrh to Jesus, we acknowledge our need for His forgiveness and healing. We recognize that our sins grieve both Jesus and ourselves, and we humbly seek His pardon and peace. Myrrh reminds us of His love and mercy, which cleanse and restore us.
The hymn beautifully captures the essence of the three gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi and invites us to find personal meaning in these symbols. It prompts us to reflect on our own offerings to Jesus – our faith, prayers, and repentance. Just as the Magi presented their gifts with sincerity and reverence, we too are called to offer the best of ourselves to Jesus.
As we delve deeper into the hymn’s message, we realize that it is not merely about external offerings but also about the condition of our hearts. It reminds us that Jesus sees beyond the material gifts and looks at the intentions and sincerity behind them. Our offerings are not measured by their monetary value but by their spiritual significance.
In conclusion, the hymn “Jesus, Great and Wondrous Star” beautifully encapsulates the symbolism and meaning behind the gifts of the Magi – gold, frankincense, and myrrh. It invites us to reflect on our own offerings and the state of our hearts. Let us strive to offer our best to Jesus – our unwavering faith, heartfelt prayers, and contrite repentance. May we remember that in giving our all to Him, we receive His love, forgiveness, and eternal grace.
I hope this hymn inspired image brings you hope and peace. Share it with someone who needs it today!
