December 24 | Matthew 2:1-2

“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”” (Matthew 2:1–2, ESV)

The only person oblivious to Jesus’ arrival was King Herod. He had to be told by kings from the East. It was so obvious to them because a special star arose in the sky. Some scholars believe the Magi were from Babylon.

It’s possible that Daniel informed the Babylonians about the Messiah and how He would come to the world. The Babylonians were also keen on astronomy, following the stars and charting them. So they would’ve noticed a star that didn’t quite fit in the heavens.

They take astrological signs seriously, attaching great meaning to strange things that happened in the sky. So when they saw the unusual star they followed it to Bethlehem. They expected the new royalty would be King Herod’s son.

But they placed Jesus’ life in grave danger by going to King Herod. Herod was an extremely paranoid leader. He had many of his family killed so they could not succeed him. For the same reason he had all the boys under two years old murdered in Bethlehem.

But even King Herod’s treachery and deception did not affect Jesus’ safety or the Magi. They brought Him gifts were the of the King. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were all gifts given to kings for practical and spiritual blessings.

Action Step: Praise Jesus the King! He is worthy of all your praise. He will receive the glory even if not the normal way you expect.

Hail King Jesus! I give You all my praise. You are worthy of all of it. Words cannot express how thankful I am. I lift You up. Be exalted in the present since of heaven!