Read Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12.
The Magi – a caste of wise men specializing in astrology, medicine, and natural science. Probably of Persian heritage, the prophet Daniel might have been considered of the caste of magi in his day. However they were able to see the coming of the King of Jews, they clearly saw something highly significant on the horizon, so much so they traveled to Jerusalem to make inquiry of Him. Their purpose: to worship Him. And notice what happens when they finally do see the baby Jesus: they worship Him.
I have grappled with the idea that the magi were true worshippers of God. Did they worship Christ as true believers? Or did they merely pay homage to Him? I suspect they did not know everything there was to know about Him – in much the same way it wasn’t clear to the early followers of Christ. I have decided that Scripture is not clear, and so leave that to God. Despite that, I am inspired by their response to Christ.
- 1) They saw something significant and researched it. It was so important, they couldn’t let it go. Oh that our desire to find Him and know Him might have that same urgency and hunger.
- 2) When they saw the Christ child, they immediately fell down and worshipped Him. What is significant here is that there was a great reverence for the child. In our day, we struggle to revere God as an omnipotent, omnipresent God, let alone a baby. They understood that He was something more than just a baby. Certainly, we understand far more than they. Our response to Him should be all the more one of falling down and worshiping Him.
- 3) Note their response to the dream in v. 12. They were more willing to protect the baby Jesus than follow the command of Herod. In many respects, they placed greater reverence on the Christ child than King Herod. Who was the greater King? Clearly Jesus was in their eyes. Impressive were their priorities!
The magi sought after Christ; when they found Him, they immediately worshipped Him; and when they had to choose between allegiances, they chose Christ. That is an example worthy of admiration and inspiration!