“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,” Matthew 2:1

Although the Wise Men are often included in Nativity scenes and in pictures of Christmas, we know that they did not visit a baby in a manger. When they arrived in Bethlehem, Joseph and Mary were living in a house and Jesus was nearing two years old.

This Christmas many of us drove a long distance to be with our family for Christmas. We were willing to spend hours on the road in order to be with those we love. We had the use of a GPS, or maps to show us exactly where we are going, and even tell us how much time it would take us to reach our destination.

Think of the Magi as they studied history and astrology and how God revealed to them that the King of the Jews was soon to be born. They saw a star in the heavens and using it as a guide, they set out on their long journey. They didn’t have a map, or a GPS. Because they had to follow the star, they could only travel at night. They had no idea how long the trip would be.

We are not told how long it took them to reach Bethlehem, nor what dangers or trials they faced along the way. We only know that the star guided them and when they reached the house where the Child was, they fell down and worshiped Him, presenting Him with precious gifts. No doubt these gifts were part of God’s plan, because He knew that Joseph and Mary would be taking a trip to Egypt and would need provision for the journey.

We have the Scriptures that tell of the soon return of Jesus. We have His Holy Spirit that guides us each day. If we continue to seek Him and obey His leading, one day soon, we will see Him return in the clouds. What a wonderful day that will be.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the hope you have given us of your soon return. Help us to live each day in expectancy and hope.

Devotion by Anne Johnston

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