Day 2 (Matthew 2:1–23)
The Visit of the Wise Men
The star-sign of the birth of the King of the Jews shows us God’s sovereign care in the infancy account of Jesus the King. Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem of Judea, marks him as being from the tribe of Judah and from the city that produced Davidic Kings.
In earlier times, wise men referred to priests and experts in mysteries in Persian and Babylon, but by this time it means a wide range of people whose practices included, astrology, dream interpretation, study of sacred writings, the pursuit of wisdom and magic.
The wise men would likely have been familiar with OT prophecy:
“A star shall come out of Jacob, and scepter shall rise out of Israel”.
This was understood by Jews to point to a messianic deliverer. The movement of the star is not a natural phenomenon, it was supernatural, perhaps a guiding angel that appeared as a star.
The wise men did not arrive at the time of Jesus’ birth in a manger, but up to two years later, when Jesus was living in a house (v. 2:11). The wise men worshipped Jesus as they arrived and offered gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Frankincense is resin used ceremonially for the only incense permitted on the altar. Myrrh is a sap used in incense and perfume and as a stimulant tonic.
After the Wise men visit, the angel of the Lord appeared twice to Joseph in a dream, which gave instruction of what Joseph shall do. The first instruction was Joseph being told to move and flee to Egypt for Herod was about to search for the Child and destroy Him. Joseph did what was instructed to Him.
The second instruction was when Herod died and Joseph being told by the Angel of the Lord in a dream to move to the land of Israel. And again, Joseph did what was instructed to Him.
Contemplation
I learn trough the heart of the Wise men. They likely traveled with a large number of attendants and guards for the long journey, which would have taken several weeks to get Jesus’ place. They kept following the star-sign until they found Jesus. I wonder if during the trip the felt doubt in their heart and thinking to go back home instead, but they continued the trip until the saw Jesus. They finished what they started. They obeyed till the end.
The wise men did not have a blind faith.
They are experts in astrology and acknowledged with the pursuit of wisdom and magic. The faith which has been granted to them from above works together with their knowledge. How beautiful! They use their skill and knowledge to glorify God.
When they saw the star, the rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
As they arrived in Jesus’ place, they fell down and worshipped Him, opening their treasures, gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The best things from what they could give to honor God. This act shows me on how they love God with all their heart, soul, and mind.
