When they [the Magi] saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Matt. 2:10-11 (NIV)
Lord Jesus, whether they were magicians or astrologers, kings or carpetbaggers; and whether there were 3, 7, or 12 of them, it makes zero difference. The Magi were wise men, and they show us the way of true wisdom—seeking you, the incarnation of all Wisdom; and worshipping you with everything we have and are.
It will take all eternity to begin to give you the worship you deserve, Jesus. For you became wisdom from God for us—that is, “our righteousness and sanctification and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:30). Because of you, we are alive, forgiven, and free. Because of you, we are welcome, known, and loved. Hallelujah!
Though the Magi came to you, you are the real seeker in the Christmas story. You came into our broken world not merely offering salvation, but to actually redeem your Bride. She comes from every period of history, and every family of humanity.
Come Herod or high water, those you’ve come to save will come to you, Jesus. Drawn by providence or pain, a visitation of angels or the witness of a friend, supernatural revelation or very ordinary circumstances, your every-nation cannot-be-numbered Bride will gather at the wedding feast of the Lamb.
On this 4th Sunday of Advent, we bow in awe of your matchless glory and measureless grace. Continue to open the eyes of our hearts to behold even more of your beauty, Jesus. Expand the chambers of our hearts to make more room for the wonders of your love.
Free us to be generous and joyful as the Magi. Liberate us to love as you love us, to forgive as you have forgiven us, and to pursue others as you faithfully seek us. So very Amen we pray, in your trustworthy and worship-worthy name.