Matthew 2:7-11
Of all of the responses we can have toward Christmas, worship most pleases God. We have every reason to rejoice greatly that Jesus came to earth in human flesh. We’re truly blessed that His purpose in coming was to rescue us from sin (1 Tim. 1:15) and make possible a relationship with our heavenly Father.
The Magi traveled all the way from the East for the sole purpose of worshipping the King of the Jewish people. Knowing a star signaled His birth, they journeyed hundreds of miles to find Him. The Magi believed God was leading them to the King, and when they finally arrived in Bethlehem, they showed reverence by humbling themselves and celebrating the Christ child with gifts. These were wealthy, wise, and respected men, yet they understood the infant was far greater than they.
Is Jesus the center of our celebrations, or have we let other interests take pride of place? Holding on to the right priorities can be challenging at this season. But we lose when we focus only on the gifts under our trees and miss the gift in the manger.
It’s easy to get sidetracked from what is most important. To help prevent that, let’s imagine all the inconveniences, setbacks, and risks the Magi endured in their pursuit of the infant King. Like those wise men, may we follow the Savior, whatever it takes.
Bible in One Year: 1 John 1-5
