egg shell

Matthew 2 v 1 – 2: After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of 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 in the east and have come to worship him”

 

This story is rather astonishing when you think about it. Who were these Magi? They were a group of astronomers, astrologer priests who were highly regarded in the Babylonian or Persian culture of this day as “wise men”. These men studied the heavens looking for unusual events and when they occurred, tried to see some meaning in them.

 

Apparently they saw an unusual star. They came to the conclusion it indicated the birth of the king of the Jews. But more than that, this King was worthy of worship. So they set out to find him.

 

Remember that these men were not Jews and had no background in Jewish prophecy. But God somehow enlightened them to the extent that they travelled a great distance to find the king and present their gifts.

 

Notice that the star did not lead them to Bethlehem at first. It lead them to Jerusalem where they had an encounter with the evil King Herod the Great. Through this encounter we understand clearly that prophecy has been fulfilled and the town of Bethlehem comes into view as indicated in Micah 5 v 2.

 

The star then guides them to Jesus. It is not clear whether the star moved along all through this journey or not. But it certainly moved to guide them to the newly born Christ. This was God’s divine way of leading them to the baby and at the same time underscore the great importance of the child that was born.

 

This striking visit by the Magi illustrates the purpose of God for all Gentiles. They too were to come and worship and be part of Immanuel’s family.

 

This helps us a great deal for it underscores for all time that no one ever needs to feel left out or excluded from Christ. If you come to worship him He will always accept you. They only exclusion people will experience with Christ, is when they exclude themselves.

 

Come and worship. Be welcome. Put your trust in Him.

 

Meditation: The miraculous events surrounding the birth of Jesus is meant to underscore the uniqueness of this child. Have you understood His uniqueness for yourself? No one else could be our Saviour, only Jesus.