Matthew 2:1-6 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came and asked, “Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews?” We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him. King Herod was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with them. It is 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 be shepherd to my people Israel.”
There is an Armenian tradition identifying the “Magi of Bethlehem” as Bathasar of Arabia, Melchior of Persia, and Gaspar of India. They were all astrologers whom studied the heavens, and recognized an unusual star.
This specter of the heavens was bright, bold, never before in existence, and led three men, from three different locations to cooperate upon a journey.
They realized that the star was leading them to a great experience….perhaps the birth of a king.
As they stopped in Judea to visit King Herod, they were instructed about the prophecies of a savior born in Bethlehem.
Following the star, they found the Christ Child in a manger in Bethlehem. They worshipped him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Praise God, through a dream, they were instructed of Herod’s evil plan to kill all males, two years of age and under. Therefore, they returned to their countries by another route.
Imagine: you are a scientist of the heavens and the stars. You discover a star that has never before existed. You are in shock and awe! You realize that this star is leading you to a spiritual experience. You decide to follow the star. It’s as if this heavenly specter is calling you.
You start out on a journey, and in the not to distant future, you hook up with two other wise, astrologers, whom have also seen the star.
All three of you travel together, realizing that this star is a sign of a greaT occurrence about to be proclaimed throughout the supernatural realm, as well as the natural.
This amazing heavenly light leads you to the Christ Child. You kneel down in worship, giving three gifts. Gold represents a king. Frankincense is a perfumed oil for anointing. Myrrh is the oil, that represents death.
As you prepare to leave the Christ Child, you realize that now, the star is no longer present in the evening sky.
As they journey to their homeland, they share their story. Snipits of salvation are being spread throughout the world.
The three Kings eventually go their separate ways. However, for the rest of their lives, they share the gift in their hearts, of their experience of worshipping the Savior.
Mary : She is recovering from childbirth. Then all of these Angelic experiences occur. She is numb with awe:
– God has g chosen her amongst all women to be the mother of The Messiah.
– The Magi arrive with gifts, and tell the story of the Christmas Star.
– Shepherds gather and tell of The Heavenly Host.
She realizes that she is to raise The Son of God, who will not only perform miracles, but also save men from their sins, as prophecy has foretold. Joseph: As the earthly father and protector of the Christ Child, imagine the burden placed upon him. Wanting to be the perfect father, I’m sure that he had great apprehensions.
Their Faith: they said, ”Yes,” to God’s plan for salvation. They realized, that in God’s great plan… He would work everything out for His purpose.
HEAVENLY FATHER: Bring many to the truths of salvation in AMERICA THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON. In Jesus Precious Name, I pray. Amen
Sue Cutler
Fearless Faith