Read Matthew 2:1-12
It is a peculiar story. Pagan astrologers from the east journeying to Israel; compelled by a star in the night sky they claimed belonged to the newly born king of the Jews. What concern would these gentiles have for a Jewish monarch, leading them to traverse hundreds of miles through foreign countryside?
They were in search of wisdom.
The pursuit of knowledge and understanding was their mission in life, and from the western sky they sensed its beckoning call. Characteristic of those who possess wisdom is a continual pursuit of the great virtue, for they know it to be “better than jewels, and nothing desirable can compare with it” (Proverbs 8:11). These wise men were in search of the crown jewel of wisdom found not in teachings, instruction, proverbs, or philosophies. Rather, these men were in search of wisdom…the person.
Their journey would lead the men to the very one who authored wisdom and fully personified it. Upon their arrival, like the shepherds before them, the wise men responded most appropriately by kneeling in worship and joyfully laying their offerings at his feet. Simeon’s song of praise to the Lord prophesied the messiah to be “…a light for revelation to the Gentiles...,” words that would find their first fulfillment in a group of wisdom hunters from the east, demonstrating that the gospel’s reach was far beyond Israel’s borders.
Starter Prayer:
Father,
Living in awe of you is truly the beginning of wisdom. Help my life to be characterized by a continual pursuit of knowing you and your word. Keep me far from the temptation of foolishness, and when I find my way to that wicked path, bring swift correction.
Amen.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,
and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
Proverbs 9:10
Their journey would lead the men to the very one who authored wisdom and fully personified it. Upon their arrival, like the shepherds before them, the wise men responded most appropriately by kneeling in worship and joyfully laying their offerings at his feet. Simeon’s song of praise to the Lord prophesied the messiah to be “…a light for revelation to the Gentiles...,” words that would find their first fulfillment in a group of wisdom hunters from the east, demonstrating that the gospel’s reach was far beyond Israel’s borders.
Starter Prayer:
Father,
Living in awe of you is truly the beginning of wisdom. Help my life to be characterized by a continual pursuit of knowing you and your word. Keep me far from the temptation of foolishness, and when I find my way to that wicked path, bring swift correction.
Amen.
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