Most nativity scenes include three wise men. Technically, there were likely more than three who undertook the journey and who arrived well after the manger scene, but the wise men add a special part to the Christmas account of the birth of Jesus. We can learn from them.
Anticipating Jesus
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him” (Matthew 2:1-2). These men had knowledge of the coming of the Jewish Messiah, likely passed down from Daniel who had influenced the magi of the east during Judah’s sixth century captivity. Their testimony, we have seen his star in the east, indicates they were carefully anticipating His coming.
Are we anticipating the second advent of Jesus? Beyond that, are we anticipating Jesus showing up in our daily lives? He is a present guide and deliverer.
Seeking Jesus
Once the wise men saw His star in the east, they sought Jesus. The best they knew, following the light they had, they first came to Jerusalem. Learning more, they were redirected to Bethlehem through knowledge of Micah’s prophecy (Micah 5:2), and then “lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy” (Matthew 2:9-10). The point is, they followed divine leadership because they were seeking Jesus. Unlike many of the religious Jews, they sought a person, not a system.
Are we seeking Jesus? The person and not a system of religion? As we receive guiding light through the Word and the Spirit, do we immediately follow in our pursuit of Jesus?
Worshipping Jesus
“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Matthew 2:11).
As we encounter the living Savior in our lives, do we worship Him? Do we extol His worth? Do we give Him what He deserves?
John Van Gelderen
Post Author
Great seed thoughts, John! How long after do you think the wisemen arrived? Some have them visiting Jesus in Nazareth! I tend to believe that it was not very long at all, notwithstanding the words “young child” and “house” in Matthew 2. Before the wisemen arrived, I believe Joseph and Mary had very little financial resources. They would want to return to Nazareth as soon as Mary could travel. They presented Jesus in the Temple (Jerusalem) soon after his birth. Wasn’t it on the 8th day that Jewish babies were circumcised? It is likely that Jerusalem was their first stop… Read more »
Thanks Marc, I follow your reasoning. Could very well be. Some argue Jesus was a bit older based on Herod killing all the children two years old and under.
Yes, that could be evidence for a late arrival of the wisemen in Nazareth. Matt. 2:7 tells that Herod inquired diligently about when the star appeared. Is there Scripture to say that the star appeared on the night of Christ’s birth? Or could the star have appeared earlier, giving the wisemen time to connect it with prophecy, prepare for their journey, and then make the journey. We can imagine Herod saying, “OK, so the star appeared 9 months ago… say, one year ago. Let’s kill all the babies from two years ago just to be safe!”
There is a fascinating DVD called “The Star of Bethlehem: Unlock the Mystery of the World’s Most Famous Star” you might find quite helpful.