December 23, 2024 - Wise Men Were Seekers

Wise Men Were Seekers 

Tuesday, December 23, 2024

by: Mary Lou Kingensmith

Scripture:  Matthew 2:1-12

When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.  Matthew 2:3

I love the story of the magi and their quest for the newborn King. It speaks to me of possibilities and the wonder of their quest. The wise men were seekers, following God’s direction by the light of the star, much like we seek God’s guidance for our lives. Moreover, they were scholars who recognized that Jesus’ birth meant something extraordinary; although they weren’t Jews, his birth transcended considerations of ethnicity and background… Jesus is for everyone who seeks him.

Wise Men Seeking Jesus by Ambrose Dudley

It is telling that the first to worship Jesus were poor shepherds and Gentiles. It is also interesting - and sad – that those in Jerusalem, by contrast, were “troubled” even though Jesus’ birth had been foretold by the prophets. Was it because the priests and scribes benefitted from the existing power structure and status quo, or – a more generous interpretation – were they simply afraid of change, even when it was for the good of Israel (and all mankind)? Unfortunately, mistrust of change and contentment with things as they are is something I contend with as well, even when I know that what is coming will be better. Joyful obedience to God’s will and opening myself to His plan is something I pray for daily.

When I was little, the song “We Three Kings” became inextricably intertwined with that of the song and story, “The Little Drummer Boy.” In both instances, the seekers offered their best gifts: for the Magi it was treasure – gold, frankincense, and myrrh. For the Drummer Boy, it was his music. The intrinsic value of the gift was and is irrelevant, that it is offered freely and without reservation is essential. The little drummer boy sings, “I played my drum for him; I played my best for him. And then he smiled at me, … me and my drum.” That feeling of love, comfort, and acceptance when Jesus smiles at us crosses all boundaries: rich, poor, young, old, Jew, Gentile – barriers are wiped away.

Like many of the parables told by Jesus, Matthew’s narration of the Magi following the Star in the East holds up a light for us to see ourselves in the wise men’s search for and worship of the King, their obedience to God, and the celebration of the gifts they offered. 

Lord, thank you for the precious gift of your son. Help us follow the light you shine on us wherever it may lead, knowing that regardless of the path it takes, it always brings us closer to you. Open our hearts to trust and rejoice in the changes your plan for us will bring and to obey you without hesitation. We joyfully offer you our humble gifts for your use and to magnify your glory. We ask that you make our gifts a blessing to others and pray that they see your love shining through us. We sing your praises. Amen.