Matthew 2:1-12

Be still: Lord, as I make space for you today, would you bring stillness to my heart and mind and prepare my soul to hear a fresh word from you today. Amen

Read: Matthew 2:1-12 

When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. (v10)

Encounter: In 1995 two amateur astronomers called Alan Hale and Thomas Bopp discovered a new comet as they were examining a global cluster of stars called M70. Two years later, that comet became known as the Hale-Bopp Comet and, as it passed earth, it was extraordinarily bright and visible (even with the naked eye) for around 18 months. I wasn’t very old at the time, but I remember my dad telling me about it before it adorned the night sky and then excitedly watching it together from our driveway in silent amazement. If you missed it, sorry, but it’s not due to pass us by again until 2061!

It's not hard to imagine the excitement of the Magi as they spotted a new and very bright star in Matthew 2. The Magi were a famous class of astrologers who served the Persian king. In other words, they were pagan astrologers. The Magi (and many of their ancient contemporaries) believed that comets or falling stars predicted the downfall of a leader. New stars, on the other hand, were associated with the arrival of new kings and leaders. 

The identity and location of the Magi is a significant detail. Matthew is using the Magi to foreshadow the greater story that his gospel will tell from here on in. He includes the story of the Magi to show what the arrival of King Jesus means - that God is on a mission not just to draw Israel (the historic people of God) back to himself, but to draw all people to himself. Jesus is not just Israel’s King, but will be King over all people.

Apply: Who am I longing to see God draw to himself? Take a moment to bring someone you love to God and ask him to draw them closer to him. Is there a way you can reach out to that person today?

Devote: Lord, thank you that you desire to bring all people to yourself and that, one day, the knowledge of your love will be fully known all over the earth.