Matthew 2:1-2 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 in the east and have come to worship him.”

The NIV tries to clear up the misconception about the magi showing up the night Jesus was born by starting this chapter with “After,” but the image is pretty firmly implanted in popular imagination. At the very least it was after Jesus was circumcised, because of all the other things that happened. Be that as it may, it is very significant that God so orchestrated things that for those who were looking for it, even astronomical events heralded the birth of the Messiah. It is no accident that the world calendar is divided according to His birth, and even extremely secular sources list Jesus as the “most influential” person who ever lived. In a way it seems unfortunate that the magi didn’t have more specific directions before arriving in Judea, because letting Herod know about it resulted in the slaughter of innocent babies. However, as Simeon prophesied, (Luke 2:34-35) the thoughts in the hearts of many were indeed revealed, even by Jesus’ simple existence. We cannot overstate the importance of the approximately 34 year period that began with Jesus’ birth. The history and fate of the whole human race, the whole universe, actually, turns on this event and people’s response to it. The magi responded with hearts that were tender toward God, investing time and resources to do all they could. If we’re still interested at that point, we’ll be able to ask them all the questions we like when we get to heaven, because they will certainly be there, having made their commitment so clear.

I must never forget the vital importance of the message I carry. I have no more control over how people respond to it than the magi did, but that’s no reason not to share; some people will receive it. I don’t have such a pivotal role in God’s plan as the magi did, but I am to be willing and available for however He wants to use me. That calls for investment of time and energy at the least. I’ve just had a call to assist with a wake and funeral I wasn’t planning for, but they will be an opportunity to demonstrate Christ to people who don’t know Him, so I’m not to draw back. The whole issue of time is one where I keep being tested, which indicates a need for continued growth. I’m not to place my schedule ahead of God’s! I am to make all of my time and resources as available to God as the magi did, for Him to use as He chooses.

Father, thank You for this Word this morning. Thank You that all this didn’t happen in the middle of Christmas functions, at least! Help me be available without being presumptive, assisting in the background however called for, so that all of Your plans may be fulfilled on Your schedule for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!