Matthew 2:1-12
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star’s appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way.
Grace Prayed For
The Grace of Openness to Transformation: The Magi’s journey wasn’t just about finding Jesus, it was about being changed by him. Pray for the grace to be open to the ways Jesus might transform your heart, mind, and even your path in life.
Following the Star: A Journey of Faith and Revelation
The story of the Magi, as told in the Gospel of Matthew, is a captivating tale of faith, following signs, and the revelation of the Christ child. Here are some reflections to ponder:
- The Call of the Unfamiliar: The Magi were foreigners, outsiders who saw a star unlike any other. This unfamiliar sight sparked their curiosity and ignited their faith. In our own lives, are we open to the unfamiliar? Are we attentive to the “stars” that might be calling us to a deeper faith experience?
- Following the Light: The Magi didn’t ignore the star. They embarked on a journey, following the light even when the destination was unknown. This is a powerful reminder to trust in the guidance we receive, whether through scripture, prayer, or intuition.
- Seeking the Messiah: The Magi weren’t just stargazers; they were seekers. They desired to do homage to the newborn king. This reflects a yearning for something greater, a recognition of the divine. Do we approach our faith with a similar seeking heart?
- Distrust and Manipulation: King Herod’s reaction to the news of the Messiah’s birth is one of fear and manipulation. This highlights the contrast between those who seek power and those who seek truth. Are we ever tempted to prioritize earthly power over the transformative power of faith?
- Following God’s Guidance: The Magi, having met the child, were warned in a dream to avoid Herod. They didn’t question, they simply followed God’s guidance. This teaches us to be open to receiving direction from God, even if it means changing our course.
- Gifts of Significance: The Magi’s gifts weren’t random. Gold represented Jesus’ royalty, frankincense his divinity, and myrrh foreshadowed his sacrifice. This reminds us that our offerings to God, whether of time, talent, or treasure, should reflect the significance of our faith.
- A Changed Journey: The Magi returned home by a different way. Their encounter with Jesus transformed them. When we encounter God genuinely, our lives are never quite the same.
The story of the Magi is an invitation for us to embark on our own journeys of faith. Let us be open to the unfamiliar signs, follow the light of God’s guidance, and allow our encounters with the divine to transform us.
Growing in Intimacy with Jesus
Embracing Transformation: The Magi returned home by a different way, forever changed by their encounter with Jesus. This reminds you that a genuine encounter with Jesus can be transformative. As you grow closer to him, your values, priorities, and even your path in life might shift. This is a sign of intimacy, a growing alignment with Jesus’ will.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post