Over the last few weeks we have reflected on the hope, joy and peace God drawing near brings and as we come in to land and Christmas is just around the corner this week inspiration come from the Magi.
There are many remarkable things about the accounts of the coming of Christ. One being the infamous journey of the Magi to welcome the new King, who they believed had been heralded by a star to be the King of the Jews. We know they came from the east, but quite where in the east and how many of them there was is unclear from their description in the bible, but their intent to celebrate and honour one who they regarded to be of special significance for our world is fascinating.
When we consider the facts, beyond the precious gifts they presented, their incredible commitment and determination to seek out Emanuel, journeying through unfamiliar nations, across unfamiliar terrain, probably for close to 2 years, based on their interpretation of an astrological phenomenon, is truly remarkable.
So as we reflect on the devotion the Magi showed, we are reminded of the wonderous significance of Emmanuel, God with us. That the Creator of the universe so loved the world that he sent His son Jesus, to become flesh and make His home among us, that whoever believes in Him can be restored in relationship with our Father and live eternally in His presence. What a truly glorious, joyful, hope filled promise.
Long may we be inspired to awe and adoration as we marvel at the generosity of our heavenly Father.
Matthew 2 v 1-6
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] 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.” When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”