December 13 - There Came Wise Men.

Matthew 2:1-2
“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, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”
 
The wise men from the east saw a star they believed to be leading them to Jesus.
 
Every other reference that we find of the “King of the Jews” is spoken during His trial and crucifixion. The wise men were the first to use this title for Him.
 
Many place them within or beside the stable in nativity scenes, however they arrived much later in the Christmas story when Jesus was no longer a baby.
 
Matthew 2:9
“When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.”
 
But why were they called wise men?
 
Wisdom begins with a fear of the Lord. 
 
Proverbs 9:10
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
 
Perhaps they were called wise men because they already had a healthy fear of Who He is.
 
Matthew 2:10-11
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.”
 
It is up to us to shine so that others will see their need to come to Him for salvation.
 
2 Peter 1:19
“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:”
 
Many are still seeking Him today, only they have no star to guide them. 
It is wise to shine our Light for Him today, and every day.
 
Matthew 5:16
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
 
 
Bible Reading:
Hosea 7-9   |    Psalm 132