Devotion:
Read Matthew 2:1-12.
The Magi were somewhat mysterious characters. We are not sure where in “the East” they came from, but many say it was likely from Persia. They are generally thought to have been priests, scholars, and astrologers. We have no idea how many of them were along on the trip, but we assume there were three simply because of their three gifts. We learn a great deal from their visit to see the new king. Our tradition of giving gifts at Christmas may have begun with their example of bringing gifts. They were the first Gentiles whom we see worshiping Christ, and this helps us to understand that Christ came for all people, Jews and Gentiles alike. While the shepherds help us to see that Christ came for the poor, the Magi help us to see that he also came for the wealthy.
But the greatest lesson the Magi have for us may be the way in which they responded when their GPS “recalculated.” God instructed them not to return to Herod’s palace to tell him the exact location of the Christ child. Herod’s invitation for a return visit to his palace would have been an honor for them. Yet they listened to God, changed their plans, and went home by a different route. Our GPS recalculates sometimes, as God invites us to go home by another route.
Personal Worship Option:
Give thanks today for the way God leads us and calls us individually. Reflect for a few moments on whether God is messing with your GPS right now. Are you being led to take on something for God or to go in a different direction? If so, pray for insight and be open to God’s leading. If not, stay the course!
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