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"...behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem." - Matthew 2:1b
During these last days of the Christmas season we turn to the wise men. We mentioned briefly last week that these men were counselors and advisers to their king. They were considered experts in nature, astrology and medicine. While studying the heavens, they spotted a special light that announced the birth of a great king. God had placed it in the sky to guide them to His Son.
There are many mysterious things about the wise men. We aren't sure what country they came from; though they probably didn't come from the Far East--the Orient. We don't know how many there were; we only know they presented three gifts to Jesus. We don't even have enough information to know the name of this "star." The Greek word can refer to a comet, a conjunction of planets or a special miraculous light God placed in the heavens. But one thing is clear: the star convinced them the great King had been born.
As they arrive in Jerusalem, the capital city of Israel, one great mystery remains for them. They ask King Herod "Where is He who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him."
Throughout this Christmas season God has shown you the certain fact that He sent His Son Jesus into our world to save you from your sins. Will you be like the wise men, leaving everything behind to worship your Savior and learn more about Him? - Lutheran Hour Ministries, 2010