Read Matthew 2:1-12
A group of strangers arrived in the city of Jerusalem. They had come from the east, most likely from Arabia, which was heavily influenced by Greek and Persian beliefs. Within this culture these men, known as magi, were highly regarded scholars, philosophers and often priests. They were men of science and extensive learning. They studied the histories and religions that existed throughout the world. They also studied and charted the stars. They connected significant events with what they observed in the heavens. When suddenly an extraordinary star appeared, they concluded a significant birth had occurred, most likely a great king or leader.
They had two choices: (1) wait 20 or 30 years to see who rose to prominence; or (2) seek out the one at the heart of this heavenly phenomenon. So they charted their find. Determined the quadrant of the skies where this unusual star appeared was associated with Israel. Deduced that a new king would be born to a royal family and traveled with their entourage to the capital city of Jerusalem. They invested all they had and believed into their search. They were so confident of their mission, that when they arrived in Jerusalem, they didn’t ask if a king had been born, only where. To their surprise, no one knew what they were talking about.
Their arrival had to create quite a stir in Jerusalem. But in the palace, it triggered King Herod’s greatest fear. He was so paranoid about losing his kingship that he even had his nephews killed. Where others anxiously waited for the promised Messiah, Herod saw Him as His greatest threat. For devious reasons he too wanted to know where this great king had been born.
A quick check with those in the know revealed the prophesied birthplace was Bethlehem. Under the guise that he too wanted to honor this newborn king, he gave the magi the needed information and requested they return to him with the exact location. What he really wanted to do was eliminate the threat to his power, but they didn’t need to know that. However, he apparently feared them enough not to send soldiers with them or spies on behind.
Leaving Jerusalem, they had to be discouraged and frustrated. They could have given up, but instead looked up. Much to their amazement and delight, the star that had set them on this journey was right there. Miraculously it led them right to the home where they found this divine child. Where God had used angels to bring the Jewish shepherds to Jesus, meeting them at their point of belief, for the magi God used a star. In the past, they had worshipped the created, but were led directly to the Creator.
When they entered the home of a humble tradesman and came face to face with the child they sought, they immediately bowed down and worshipped. It is common to bow in respect to a king and give peace offerings. They presented lavish gifts on this impoverished family. However, to worship is an acknowledgment that this child was much more. He was God! Though they may not have known their significance, the gifts they gave were symbolic for all Jesus was: gold – the tribute of a king; frankincense – an offering to God; and myrrh – an acknowledgment of His being a man subject to death. These gifts were also timely as this poor family’s financial needs would greatly increase as Herod attempted to carry out his wicked plan. (Matthew 2:13-23)
After finding Jesus, these magi were truly wise men. Previously a star had led them, but afterwards they were led directly by God. Warned not to return to Jerusalem, they returned to their own country bringing with them the good news: Truly a great king had been born – the King of kings and Lord of lords.
Making It Personal
Before you found Jesus were you like the magi seeking something significant and meaningful in your life in all the wrong places?
What did God use to bring you face to face, heart to heart, with Jesus?
When was the last time you bowed down and worshipped in acknowledgment of all Jesus is in your life?
Think of a symbolic gift you can give Jesus. What is it? What does it mean? When and how will you actually give it?
