Meanwhile…on the other side of the world, a group of astrologers called “Magi” were perplexed and excited about a new bright star that had recently appeared in the eastern night sky. For them, this new star was a sign that something important had taken place-possibly the birth of a new king. The appearance of this new star was significant enough to prompt a group of these men to travel many miles to follow this star to Israel and worship the new-born king to whom this great sign pointed. Matthew tells us…

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:1-2 NIV

Many nativities often depict these Magi worshipping at the manger, but this simply couldn’t have been the case. This was a journey of hundreds of miles, and they were being led by the star in the sky day by day. In ancient Israel, “east” could have referred to an area near ancient Babylon. If so, this would be a trip of at least 400 miles. Scholars believe this trip would have taken the Magi three or four weeks by camel, and being led by the star, possibly as many as 40 days. By the time these Magi arrived in Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph would have been living in a more permanent situation. Matthew states that the Magi came “to the house” where Joseph and Mary were living with Jesus and worshipped Him there.

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:11 NIV

Over the years, it has been assumed that there were three Magi possibly because they brought three gifts, but the scripture isn’t specific about their number. Regardless of how many there were, their visit must have been yet another wondrous event in the life of Mary and Joseph. As these strangely-dressed foreign men (who weren’t of Jewish faith!) bowed down in worship before the baby Jesus and showered Him with expensive gifts, it was becoming clear that Jesus was not only the Messiah for the nation of Israel but also for all the peoples of the world.

Prayer Emphasis: Thank God that Jesus came to save not only the nation of Israel, but all of different peoples of the world.

For Family Discussion…
When the Magi came into Bethlehem, what kind of scene do you think they likely caused among the people there?
Mary and Joseph must have been quite surprised when foreign men came to worship Jesus. Tell of a time that God surprised you with the way He chose to work in your life.