Advent Devotionals December 19
“I see him, but at a later time, I’ll recognize him, even though he is far away. A star will come out of Jacob. A scepter shall rise out of Israel.” - Numbers 24:17, VOICE
“Where is this newborn, who is the King of the Jews? When we were far away in the East we saw His star. And we have followed its glisten and gleam all this way to worship Him.” - Matthew 2:2, VOICE
The magi were brilliant scholars who studied medicine, prophecy, religion, and astronomy - studying the stars to find answers about a coming Messiah. (See prophecy of Balaam in Numbers 24:17, cited above.)
After years of preparation, they left everything to follow this special star for hundreds, perhaps thousands, of miles. How’s that for a high-tech navigation system engineered by our Creator!
Imagine their joy and anticipation to finally meet Jesus - king of the universe - perhaps not realizing he was their creator and redeemer.
What can we learn from these wise men?
• They had a sense God was up to something.
• They were looking for the Messiah so they could worship.
• They brought the most worthy gifts they could find.
What about you? What is God up to in your life?
May you prepare for an encounter with Jesus with the same enthusiasm you have in decorating your house, buying presents, going to parties, and baking cookies.
What worthy gifts can you give Him? Yourself - your time, possessions, plans, and worship.
Joy to the world! The Lord has come.
By Brenda Branson, Hanson UMC, Pennyrile District