Around 3 B.C., while living in the East (Arabia, Persia, etc.), some astrologers notice an epiphany in the celestials, something abnormal to say the least. A star had risen and was hovering over Palestine. After they consulted their writings, these Magi (wise men) set off on a pilgrimage, a faithful journey to find a newborn king.
Even at an early stage I ask...
- Who was this king proclaimed by the stars?
- Did Palestine have anything to do with this star and its position?
- Why was finding him so important?
- Upon what information did these men base their motive to take this voyage?
- Would they need local help when they began to close in on this royal figure?
"I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.
Numbers 24:17 NIV
Upon arrival in Palestine, in the Religious Metropolis of Jerusalem, the Great King Herod (great in wickedness) is accessed by these men from the East. This consultation sets off a firestorm of jealousy, fear, and subsequent genocide.
After the traveling astrologers break free from the mad usurper-king, they are reunited with the star once again and are led directly to the house of the true King of the Jews -- the Christ Child who is named Jesus.
The wise men immediately brought forth praise of the King's royalty (Gold), gifts symbolizing divinity (incense), and spices that were the best for burial (myrrh). While reading about these men as they bowed, worshiped and laid forth the best they possessed, my mind reels.
God through His sovereign hand, took the ancient words of a pagan sorcerer, a star-like figure among the skies leading a caravan of secular astrologers, even throwing in a crazed ruler to perform His will.
God used these unlikely elements to draw the world to His Son. The Christ Child waits for you to visit His feet as did the faithful Magi. Remember that we only approach with an authentic attitude of worship as we offer unto Him the very best that we have as children should when approaching such a wonderful God and Father.
Merry Christmas,
Chad Carroway
After the traveling astrologers break free from the mad usurper-king, they are reunited with the star once again and are led directly to the house of the true King of the Jews -- the Christ Child who is named Jesus.
The wise men immediately brought forth praise of the King's royalty (Gold), gifts symbolizing divinity (incense), and spices that were the best for burial (myrrh). While reading about these men as they bowed, worshiped and laid forth the best they possessed, my mind reels.
God through His sovereign hand, took the ancient words of a pagan sorcerer, a star-like figure among the skies leading a caravan of secular astrologers, even throwing in a crazed ruler to perform His will.
God used these unlikely elements to draw the world to His Son. The Christ Child waits for you to visit His feet as did the faithful Magi. Remember that we only approach with an authentic attitude of worship as we offer unto Him the very best that we have as children should when approaching such a wonderful God and Father.
Merry Christmas,
Chad Carroway
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