The Christmas song, “We Three Kings” speaks to us of the “guiding light” which lead the Magi West from Persia to Jerusalem and eventually to Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus. In the gospel of Matthew (2:2) this light is referred to as, "His Star."
Not much is known about the exact identity of the Magi but they were most likely Gentiles of high position from a country northeast of Babylon, who were given a special revelation by God concerning the birth of, the King of the Jews. Some Bible scholars believe the revelation came through knowledge of Balaam’s prophecy concerning the “star” that would “come out of Jacob” (Num. 24:17) Others simply believe it came to them in the sky, as we are told in Matthew’s Gospel, “they had seen His star in the East.” (Matthew 2:2) Whatever the source, the Magi came to Jerusalem to worship the new-born King of the Jews and to pay tribute of Gold, Incense and Myrrh.
On their journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem “the star”, they had seen in the East, reappeared and led them to the specific house in Bethlehem where they found the Child Jesus. (Matthew 2:9-11) This was truly a miracle, as Bethlehem is about 5 miles south of Jerusalem and “Stars” naturally travel from east to west across the heavens, not from north to south.
The response of the wise men upon finding Jesus was entirely appropriate, and their actions serve as a model of true discipleship. They sought Christ (Matt. 2:2), and when they had found their way, they rejoiced (Matt.2:10), finding the child, they worshiped (Matt. 2:11) and offer him gifts that befit a king (Matt.2:11; cf. Pss 45:7-9; 72:15).
The response of Herod is completely different. He is disturbed at the news of the wise men (v. 3), then engages in deception (v. 7), lying (v. 8), and murder (v. 16) in order to destroy Jesus. The wise men worshiped Jesus while Herod sought to kill him. Here, as elsewhere in Matthew's gospel, there is no middle ground: those who would not worship Jesus as the royal Messiah, rejected him and sought his destruction.
The same is true today for many people. Some are like Herod and reject Jesus, while others are like the Magi and see Him for who He is; the Messiah, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Savior of mankind, the "Light of the World." God's gift to all - if we will only receive it.
The Truth
“A Star shall rise out of Jacob. A Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” (Numbers 24:17)
“I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” (Rev.22:16)
Merry Christmas.
