Christmas Blog: 3 Point Memo on the Magi

Since this is December, I thought I would start my blog with a Christmas one entitled “3 Point Memo on the Magi.” In Matthew 2:1-12 we read the story of the Magi known as the “Wise Men” in the Nativity Story. These Magi were actually pagan astrologers from Persia. These were men of intellect and means and God used something they were familiar with to get their attention, a star. They were on a pilgrimage. They followed this star for several months until it took them to Jerusalem.

(Point 1) There are seekers of God all around us. These Magi, even though they were pagan astrologers, were in pursuit of the King of the Jews. We must realize that people all around us, like the Magi, are on a pilgrimage. They are seeking for purpose, truth, fulfillment, meaning. Many times they are NOT seeking after God, but look to the things of this world (astrology, money, sex, drugs, etc.) or other “spiritual” religions. Even so, we need to be sensitive to the fact that they ARE seeking and need to encourage them in their pursuit of truth. The very fact that they are seeking lets us know that God is at work in their lives and is working on drawing them closer to Him (whether it be by a star, death of a loved one, divorce, etc.). God sometimes allows the unfortunate or uncommon in hopes of getting their attention. Think back to what God used in your life. So don’t give up or lose heart for those loved ones that seem to be stumbling through other things in their pursuit. For God will reveal Himself to those who are sincere in their search. In 2nd Kings we see Naaman who was seeking healing from leprosy when his servant girl pointed him to God through the Prophet Elijah. Naaman found more than just his healing. In 2nd Kings 5:15 he told Elijah, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel….” So we need to continue to pray for those around us who are in need of what only God can give them. Live in a way that exalts and points to Christ and God is faithful to draw them to Himself. (John 12:32)

(Point 2) If seekers are to find TRUTH, they will find it only in scripture. The Magi had been following the star, but still did NOT know WHERE EXACTLY the new King was to be born. They needed more detailed direction. Only in the Word of God, did they find the answer they needed. The religions and philosophies of this world can only take one so far. They will eventually lead to a dead end. Even at our dead ends, God is there to give us truth that will lead us to Him, but ONLY in Christ, will one find God. (John 14:6) It is NOT our job to make people believe in Christ, but it is our job to give them the truth of God’s word so that they CAN find Him. I am not talking about sharing “Christianese”, but the truth of God’ word. There is a difference. Sharing a scripture and applying it in simple terms to one’s life can help someone in their way. God’s word is powerful and will not return to Him void. It is truth that helps to set us free from the lies of the enemy. Help bring clarity to someone around you by sharing the simple truth of God’s word in a meaningful way.

(Point 3) When one finds Jesus, worship is the only proper response. The Magi came prepared to worship the new King with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrhh – which were gifts given to a royal court. They had found him! What gift of worship do you bring to Jesus this Christmas? If pagan scholars can bring Jesus gifts, how much more should not we, who believe Jesus is not only the King of the Jews, but our Lord and Savior? Let us give Him our worship of trust and obedience. We are to live our lives as a fragrant offering to our King. As the Apostle Paul said, “For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life…..” (2nd Corinthians 2:15,16)

Perhaps God has appointed you to be a “star” in someone’s life. Shine bright and shine true. (Matt. 5:16) You never know when someone will ask you, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?”