What did Jesus do with his gifts?

Image by krisdecurtis via FlickrPhil made a good post about the faith of the shepherds told in Luke 2:8-20. I always enjoy thinking through the details of exactly how things panned out in Biblical stories. So, while we are discussing the birth of Jesus during this time of year, Phil's post made me think about the gifts the shepherds wise men brought to Jesus in Matthew 2:11.

"And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh."

I've always wondered what Jesus did with those gifts. Did he give them away? Did Mary and Joseph put them away and give them back to him when he was older? The gifts were "offered" but we're they accepted? What do you think Jesus, Joseph, & Mary did with the gifts?

The Risk of Taking Risks

I'm sure there is some profound quote already stating what I am about to state, but as I prepared my goals for 2009 something occurred to me.

A few people I know that have not been as successful as I have, failed because they took risks. I have always played things safe and for the most part have lived a safe and comfortable life. Risk taking makes me uncomfortable. However, it's clear that I know more people who have taken risks in which they have been far more successful than me in the end.

I'm going to take a big risk in 2009. The bigger the risk the bigger the reward...right?

Related

• The American Creed

The Art of Possibility

I just wrapped up one of the best books I've read all year. The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander. The book was first published in 2000 so I'm a little late getting around to it. I first learned about the book this year as it came up in some discussions at work. I was impressed with some of the things being said, so I ordered me a copy and was finally able to finish it this morning.

This is a book that you can and will spend a lot of time contemplating. The book teaches you a series of practices that help you overcome obstacles and tough situations by seeing other possibilities when our nature is to give up hope on the situation. As you read it, the passion and energy that the authors have comes out. Reading the book makes you feel positive, optimistic, and empowered to handle anything.

To get a taste of what the book is like, here is a talk Benjamin Zander gave at the TED conference.

Throwing Shoes

I'm sure everyone has seen this video of President George W. Bush at an Iraqi press conference yesterday. When I saw it the first couple of times I laughed. Then I began to get a little angry that someone would do this. Then I began to feel sorry for the gentleman who threw the shoes and the life he must live. Then I kept making full circles between laughter, anger, and pity.

Anyway, Bush still has some moves huh? I'm impressed.