On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and myrrh. – Matthew 2:11 (NIV)
Think about this moment. The magi sacrifice much and rely on their faith to get them to Bethlehem. Even after so many distractions from men, they remain focused on the Messiah and experience true joy.
It’s the same with us. One day the focus of our faith will be revealed. At the end of our life, we’ll approach the house and see the Messiah, Jesus Christ, face-to-face. This Christmas, don’t stay in Jerusalem and miss the moment.
The magi were men of position and prestige, yet they fell before the new-born king. They humble themselves before him. They give generously to him, giving gifts of great value. They did not give him a television, smart phone, fruit cake or a Christmas sweater.
They did not tell Mary and Joseph, “Wow, do you know what we went through to get here?” They didn’t say, “Hey, there’s a gift receipt in there if you don’t like it.” They didn’t even warn them about Herod. They are totally focused on the Messiah, Jesus Christ. They are totally reliant on their faith. They trust God has everything handled, even Herod.
The magi gave of themselves, leaving everything behind to pursue the Messiah. They gave it all to Christ. How much are you willing to give to Jesus?
#Retrospective: This post originally published Dec. 21, 2010.
© 2010 CGThelen
140 Character Christian 
My comment actually became a post in record time. I couldn’t type fast enough to keep up with the Holy Spirit! Thank you, and God, for the inspiration.
It’s now a great post 😊
I used to haul hay, in my rural community, as a teenager. It was hard, hot work loading bale after heavy bale onto a truck and then stacking it in an equally stifling barn. On such days it was always a relief to see my boss’s aunt coming in a pickup truck about lunch time. She came along side, rolled down her window and said the five most comforting words: “Come on up to the house.” There was always a hearty meal waiting, followed by a much needed siesta during the heat of the day.
I suppose it’s incomplete, but this is my little idea of what going to heaven is like, CG. Someday, Jesus is going to call out to me, “Come on up to the house.” A never ending time of fellowship and rest will then begin.
Blessings to you, and thank your for your blog ministry. Your 10 year old posts are just as welcome as the newest ones!
Love that story and how you related it to heaven. That’s such a memorable line, “Come on up to the house.” After all our hard work and sweat for the Kingdom, God will call us to His house.
Thanks for sharing and have a blessed Christmas.