Magi: Late to the party

-Pastor Melissa Fain-

9 When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

Matthew 2:9-12 NRSV

Did you know we don’t really know how many magi, or wise men, came to Jesus’ birthplace? The Bible has nothing really written about them. Traditionally, Christians have said there were three. Many Christians put those three at different ages: young, middle aged and older. Many Christians have also made those three from different parts of the world: African, Asian, and European. The Magi have become a symbol to get those who wouldn’t have been close to Jesus’ birth, to Jesus’ birth. They are a reminder that all are included in God’s story.

But boy did they arrive late! Some estimates say the magi came three years after Jesus was born! That’s not only late to the party but, the party was over, everyone cleaned up, and at least 30 parties had come and gone before the magi arrived! Why are they even arriving then? It’s because we can’t limit who is allowed to celebrate Christ just because it’s not easy for them to arrive. It’s actually a big deal when people work extra hard to get to God’s plan. We shouldn’t turn people away because it can be more difficult. For those who have it easier, we should help those people reach their goal.

The Magi were late the party, but they were still invited. That, in itself, is a celebration!

---

Question: How can we help those who struggle to get to God?
 
Prayer: Dear God, help us include everyone to Christ’s birth, not just those who it’s easier. Amen.

---

Places to connect:

To see or share pictures of the Advent Adventure Crafts:
Twitter: @FigTreeTweet, #AdventAdventure

For deeper discussion: Reddit: www.Reddit.com/r/FigTreeChristian