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.”
Matthew 2:1-2 NIV
The Magi have always interested me in the Advent story. They are a peculiar bunch, particularly because of the way they discovered the arrival of Christ. They said they “saw his star when it rose.”
No angel came to them. They received no prophetic announcement. They simply studied the sky.
Now we don’t know for sure, but it is possible the Magi may have been aware of Psalm 19:1-2:
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they reveal knowledge.
These wise men, from a faraway land, were able to determine the announcement of the Messiah’s birth – and His location – by diligently investigating the stars.
And we know that they were diligent, because if they were not, they would have missed the star they needed to see.
While everyone else was told of Christ’s arrival, the Magi were looking for and coming to the One who came.
This is not to say that those who were not the Magi were wrong for not eagerly watching for the Messiah. Many a time God has shown up in our lives when we least expected or even deserved it. But there is something to be said about a diligent, tireless, patient pursuit of God based on what He has promised.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Hebrews 11:6
Are you on the hunt for God? Are you following the signs He leaves in your life that lead you to Him?
Today’s challenge is to read the rest of the story in Matthew 2:1-12 and see how the Magi’s pursuit of the Messiah unfolds. Pay special attention to their response upon finding the Messiah, and share in the comments how God is leading you to respond to His presence in your life.
I’m keeping my eyes peeled, cause I know He’s at work1
Indeed! On the edge of my seat!
I pray that I keep seeking and pleasing the good Lord with my time, talents and treasures.
I pray that the love of the lord will always be reflected in my life and through my actions and reactions with my family and friends and all those I come in contact with my prayer is Lord make me a blessing so that others will see Your reflections in my daily life
I’m on the hunt for GOD but I must admit at times the trail gets messy!