We continue our journey looking at the players in the Christmas story. It is an incredible trip that has given me a lot to think about as I studied each of these people. So far we have looked at Mary, Joseph and the shepherds. Today we are looking at the wise men.
Matthew 2:1-12 NLT
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, 2 “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.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: 6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, Are by no means least among the leaders of Judah; For from you will come forth a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” 7 Then Herod secretly called for the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him.” 9 After hearing the king, they went on their way; and behold, the star, which they had seen in the east, went on ahead of them until it came to a stop over the place where the Child was to be found. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And after they came into the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary; and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And after being warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.
These people were foreigners from a far off land and not followers of Jesus. Most likely they were astrologers that studied the sky. It was the star that drew them to look for the Messiah.
It was also months later. Mary, Joseph and Jesus were now in a house. Jesus was a child and not a baby any longer. The journey was long and amazing.
These magi were also wise and rich. They traveled with extra people and extra money. They traveled much, and this trip had a greater purpose. They learned more than they ever had before. They were also challenged by Herod who was intimidated by the prospect of a king. In fact Herod had all make children under 2 killed just so he could make sure the one child people were looking to as the Messiah would be gone.
God broke their routine and sent them on a journey. This journey led to their salvation. I don’t mean their eternal salvation although that may be a fact. it was one that gave them direction, led to their worship and gave insight to Jesus’ parents and others around them.
The wise men gave the best gifts to Jesus. I even suspect that they gave all their gifts to him without holding back. Take a look at the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. These were expensive and important. May we too give God all our gifts and worship Him.
Even outsiders can experience the salvation God offers. The magi give hope to each of us. No matter how far off we are or how close we are, God is calling us to follow Him. Seek Him. Worship Him.
The wise men of the Christmas story saw the salvation and gift of God as they made a point to seek out the truth of Jesus and the person of sent from God.
Have a blessed Christmas week!
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