Magi from the east ...

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After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. -Matthew 2:1-2,10-11 NLT

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Unlike the images that are seen on many Christmas cards the Magi, or wise men, were not present in the stable with the shepherds after Jesus was born. Some time has passed. Mary and Joseph have consecrated the baby Jesus in Jerusalem forty days after his birth. It has been a while since these men saw the star in their home land. When the wise men arrive they do not find a baby in a stable but a child in a house. Even so, they acknowledge him as a king.

Up until this time only Jews have been involved in the nativity story. Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, Simeon and Anna were all Jews. So interesting how men from another country (perhaps Persia) were alerted by some sort of astronomical happening in the sky. It reminds me that this message is not one that is limited to an ethnicity or race. The Messiah came not just for Israel but for everyone. And we, with the Magi, are overjoyed that he has come into the world.

I amazed Lord at how much you confirmed your word to Mary and Joseph. Confirm your word in our hearts today.

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