Daily Devotional

Finally, we come to the Magi. The contrast here is stunning. These were pagans from the East, probably from Persia or Babylon. They studied the stars. They would have been considered outsiders by any Jew in Jerusalem. Yet they are the ones who responded correctly.

When they saw the star, they “rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.” Matthew piles up words here because he cannot find enough to describe their happiness. These pagan astrologers were more excited about Jesus than God’s own covenant people. They came into the house, saw the child with Mary, and fell down and worshipped Him. That is the posture of total surrender, the posture of a servant before a king.

Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These were not cheap gifts from the Bethlehem gift shop. These were costly offerings fit for a king. Gold was the metal of kings. Frankincense was an expensive perfume used in royal courts. Myrrh was another valuable spice.

Here is what stands out about the Magi: they acted on what little they knew. The scribes knew the prophecy inside and out. The Magi? They saw a star and took a chance. They knew far less than the religious experts, but they did far more. They traveled hundreds of miles through dangerous territory. They left their homes, their families, their comfort. Their response cost them something.

Faith involves acting in the present situation according to what God says is true, valuable, and worthy of commitment. The Magi did not just believe. They acted on their belief. They brought Jesus the best they had. What are you bringing Him?