Precious Truth: Wise men still seek Him.
Today’s Reading from The Word
Matthew 2:10
When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
Camels were the transportation and pack animals of the east. They could travel long distances and were often used by caravans to carry the heavy loads of trade goods. Most likely they were used by the Magi in the long journey as they followed the star to Bethlehem.
Why would wise men from the east be more aware than the scholars of the area? Why were they looking for the coming Messiah? It is unknown, but perhaps it was their anticipation and attitude of joy which created the way they kept alive their focus through the generations. They knew whose star had appeared and they followed it. Unafraid of the unknowns, of which there were many, these revered and wealthy men were not going to miss this chance of a lifetime to give honor to such a great King, which their writings had foretold.
Daniel the prophet had been a member of the Magi during the Jewish captivity in Babylon. He had predicted the generation of the Messiah and wise men made it their life’s occupation to study the old writings. They also studied the stars for signs of events.
What is known of them is recorded in the gospel, but we have this key to their long journey: they were overjoyed at the prospect of a Savior King who would rule a new Kingdom. This new Kingdom would be greater than all the others in world history, and these wise men longed for it, prepared for it, and desired to properly welcome such a great leader with their finest and most valuable gifts.
No wonder Herod took note, and felt a threat to his plans to rule the region.
God planned all events carefully, and the expensive gifts financed the journey to safety for the young family.
A well known saying, “Wise men still seek him” holds true for us today. Are we overjoyed at the prospect of meeting Christ? Do we understand his greatness, and what his advent means to the world and to our own lives?
Take time to seek Christ Jesus today, and give him worship.
