Pastor's Column 12/27/20

PASTOR’S COLUMN

“About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem asking, “Where is the new born king of the Jews?” We saw His star as it rose and we have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:1b-2, NLT

“When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with His mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. When it was time to leave they returned to their country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod.” Matthew 2:10-12, NLT

4th Sunday- (5th Sunday in Advent) Finding Him!

However far our journeys may take us in life, we must remain confident that a much greater purpose awaits us at the end of our travels. In reading the narrative concerning the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, some may be tempted to think that the Magi (Wise Men) were only seeking scientific validation of a planetary phenomenon. However, their expedition was inspired by Biblical prophecy. They were in search of the Messiah, who was to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2, NLT). The birth of Christ, these astrologers believed, would coincide with a “great conjunction.” This was when Jupiter and Saturn would appear in close proximity, as a “bright shining star.” This would occur in the sky about the time of Christ’s birth. It was not merely the star, the wise men glorified. They sought Jesus, so they could worship Him! The star would lead them to where Jesus was; but Jesus would lead them where they needed to go. If the wise men only had a scientific intent in their expedition, they never would have been heard of. Their journey was perilous, even taunted by King Herod. God led them to Bethlehem, and after worshiping Jesus and presenting Him with gifts, gave them a safe route home. When we find our way to Jesus, we will always be directed safely home!