December 20th

December 20: Matthew 2:1-2

Matthew 2:1-2  (NIV)

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

Reflection

Men, traveling for miles, likely over a period of months, came looking for Jesus. They had studied the prophets of old and knew the King would be born in Bethlehem. Somehow, from their studies of the stars, they knew it was happening in their generation.

Bethlehem and Israel in general would not prepare room for Jesus. There would be no room for them in the Inn. Jesus was right there in their midst, and they would miss him.  But from the other side of the world, seekers would come and find him.

Foreigners would show the world what really mattered.

It’s common for people of any race or nationality to consider their views and perspectives as the best. It’s very common, but that doesn’t make it right. This story of the men from the east remind us that sometimes other people from other cultures can show us what we should be looking for. If we look to them, they can show us Jesus in ways we never thought possible.

How familiar are you with the church in other parts of the world? Is there a foreign expression of Christianity (or any religion) that has helped to shape your faith?

Prayer

God, the One who draws people from all nations, draw me in as well. Help me not to miss the Jesus who is in our midst.