The Magi

After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. (Matthew 2:9-12 ESV). One of the most interesting of the facts of the birth of Jesus is found in the visit of the Magi bearing gifts to him. There was some time (perhaps as much as two years) that passed before the Magi found Jesus. During this time Mary and Joseph still lived in Bethlehem. Undoubtedly there were many curious well-wishers that looked in on the family. This was their hometown. Certainly they still had relatives and family friends who lived there. With the declaration of the shepherds they would have attracted a lot of attention. If for no other reason than curiosity, many may have dropped by to meet the most famous baby in Bethlehem. Out of all the visitors, the Bible only records the shepherds, and later the Magi (traditionally Wise Men). As with all of the Bible, there is purpose in only mentioning these two groups. Both had some things in common with Jesus. First, note how clearly Jesus demonstrates shepherd qualities like the men who knelt by the baby’s manger. He cares for us, his sheep, and ensures that our every real need is met. But, he goes far above the care of any earthly shepherd. He died for us so we can follow him into eternity. Second, the Wise Men came from a great distance bringing valuable gifts. But Jesus came from an even greater distance, all the way from heaven to earth. The Savior brought more costly gifts than gold, frankincense, or myrrh. Jesus brought love, forgiveness, and salvation. Third, Jesus was also a visitor. Isn’t it easy to forget that Jesus was in some ways “a visitor” to earth? His home was not the earth. That certainly will take place some day. When the trumpet sounds, a new heaven and a new earth will be created. The throne of Jesus will come to the earth; but, we cannot forget that Jesus’ home has always been heaven. He comes to earth as an accommodation to save his children. Aren’t you glad he did!