Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:1-2 NKJV
There is a Nativity scene near my home erected like clockwork each year. The simple structures are about fifty years old. The faded plastic figures stand without touchup or fanfare as a testament to tradition. Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus are most prominent in the display. Still, it was the Magi that caught my attention. Commonly referred to as the wise men, this trio diligently followed the star in the east to find the newborn King.
Despite their culture, the Magi sought God. These men were not Hebrews awaiting the prophecy for deliverance from their oppressors. These men from foreign lands had the wealth and means to make an expensive and extended voyage. Their pursuit rewarded them with wisdom to not only seek the Messiah but worship Him as well.
If only we were as determined. Unlike the Magi, we don’t have to travel thousands of miles. God is readily available to us. However, we can become too preoccupied with our plans to seek God consistently. We long for success and security. Yet, the things we desire most are available from our Savior.
The more we earnestly search for God, the more we will find. Pursuing His presence (instead of present) rewards us with guidance, compassion, and grace for our trials. We must pursue Christ as if our lives depend on it because they do. The wise men traveled thousands of miles over many months to find the Messiah. We need only acknowledge Christ as our Savior and prioritize our relationship with Him.
Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way (Matthew 2:12 NKJV).
The Magi were also obedient. These weary travelers did not return to King Herod with our Savior’s location as instructed. Instead, they obeyed the Lord and returned home via a different route, perilously defying the king’s decree. How often do we obey God as quickly? Obedience may require that we suffer inconveniences and discomfort. These men did not despise their journey, and neither should we.
It is often hard roads that lead us to Christ. Paths of disappointment push us closer to God, leaving us stronger and wiser. Wisdom teaches us to seek God more than anything else. Our Savior’s birth makes the very things we desperately want—peace, comfort, and joy—accessible without the journey.
And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You (Psalm 9:10 NKJV).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, please bless me with wisdom and discernment as I enter a new year. May I never stop searching for your will and purpose in my life. Amen.
Your turn: Do you know what you're searching for this season of life? What changes can you make to seek God consistently?
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