The three wise men show up in just about every nativity scene you see. However, they did not present their gifts on the birth night of our Savior. I went searching information about the three prestigious men who traveled a great distance to present gifts to the one born beneath the star. I have focused on one action they took for this writing.
We assume that there were three wise men who came bearing gifts, because the gifts numbered three. Scripture does not tell us how many there were nor exactly where these Magi were from, only stating that they traveled from the East (Matt 2:1). They stopped by Jerusalem to visit King Herod on their journey and stated clearly:
Matthew 2:2
2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” (NKJV)
Herod was known for his cruelty. He was anxious to know the whereabouts of this child. He requested that once found, they should pass back by and let him know so that he might go and worship him as well (Matt 2:8). Isn’t that like the enemy to put before us those who do not mean well? Wolves in sheep’s clothing? We soon learn that his intention was not to honor but to kill this child.
We know that Jesus was not in the manager when visited by these men as Matt 2:11 clearly states they came to him in a house with only the child and his mother. Scripture does not mention Joseph at this visit. Some theologians say it was to make them aware there was no earthly father. Scripture does not elaborate.
There in the house they fell down and worshipped Jesus and presented the gifts to Him. Now we get to Matt 2:12. This verse immediately caught my eye. Scripture states they were divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod and they followed that directive by traveling another way home. Scripture also states that upon hearing the news that they left by another route, Herod became enraged and had all male children two years and younger killed, hoping to snuff out the life of this child, born to be King (Matt 2:16).
Thought For Today:
These men of the Magi listened to the advice given to them as they slept. I cannot say that I have ever had a “dream” directing me but I have definitely experienced divine intervention. You know that voice inside that says do this or stop and turn around? Often it is just an uncomfortable “feeling.”
We will never know what would have happened had the wise men stopped back by Jerusalem and given Herod the location of the child Jesus, because they listened to the voice of God and took action. If we start to do something and feel even the least bit uncomfortable…that is our sign. We should stop and reconsider, make adjustment and pray for further direction. Our God wants us to listen for His voice and obey.
I have a tendency to want to forge ahead only to meet with the frustration that comes from allowing the enemy to push me in a direction the Father is not wanting me to go. Right now, during this season it is easy to be drawn into financial difficulty by following another voice. We cannot go wrong by listening to the wisdom coming from our Father in heaven. The gift of this season was bought, paid for and presented to us beautifully, beginning in a humble setting. Wisdom and stewardship are vital to keep the holiday from becoming something we dread instead of the blessing it is meant to be..
Scripture For Today:
Matthew 2:9-12
9 When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.(NKJV)
Prayer For Today:
Hello Father! Thank You that You give direction to our lives. Father, help us to be still and listen for the way we should go, and follow in it. The enemy tries to confuse us, lure us in the opposite direction. Help us discern Your voice from the voice of this world. Father, we ask for wisdom this holiday that will keep us from overspending and turning a blessing into a financial crisis. Forgive us our sins and where we fail You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.