Today is the last of a four-part series on the response to the news of the birth of Jesus.
Responding to Surprising News
In the darkness, a lone light stands out. It captivates. Could it be true? It requires further investigation.
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him (Matthew 2:1-2, NASB)
The news is troubling. Could it be true? Another king born; a new reign.
When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him (Matthew 2:3)
What to do with this news? Pretend to be interested–to desire to also worship Him. Mislead those who seek Him…
And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him (Matthew 2:8).”
…or earnestly seek the new born King.?
After hearing the king, they went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was (Matthew 2:9).
Those who earnestly seek Jesus will find exceeding joy in His presence.
When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:10-11).
140 Character Christian 