Christmas: The Divine Interruption Shembull

The Magi It’s interesting to consider that Jesus’ arrival interrupted the daily living of some very smart people in such a significant way that they changed up their routine to pursue a greater awareness of this interruption. Let’s take a brief moment to think about who these “Magi” were and what was important about them. We know from various Bible translations that the Magi were wise men, and they traveled from the East to Jerusalem, recognizing a phenomenon in the stars to signify the arrival of the Jewish king. Furthermore, the historian Herodotus tells us that such Magi were priestly advisers in the royal courts of the Babylonian, Mede, and Persian empires. The Magi studied the stars and were highly regarded in their day for their wisdom and possible access to divine knowledge through the stars. So it is abundantly fitting that the Father would appear to these Magi in a way that would catch their attention. As we think about the Magi and their focused intention to find the newborn King of the Jews, they are an interesting contrast to the shepherds in the field at night that received an angelic visitation as they tended their sheep. The shepherds heartily responded to this angelic visit by immediately looking for Jesus, regardless of the time of day. The Magi also made significant efforts to find Jesus, traveling great distances and making inquiries about this King of the Jews among the leadership in Jerusalem. Even though they didn’t have lots of details or information, the Magi left their homes to recognize and worship the newborn King of the Jews. Regardless of what season of life we may find ourselves, worshipping Jesus is always worthwhile and appropriate! Reflection: In what ways has God revealed Jesus to you over the recent weeks and months? What are some ways that you could worship Jesus in your current season? Take a moment to ask Jesus if there’s some fresh direction He would like to give you at this time.