For most Americans, the biblical Christmas story has been told hundreds of times. Some of us have been told so many times that the wonder and the message have been diluted. The story of the birth of Christ, the shepherds and the wise men has become a routine tradition as part of the Christmas season. But nothing in this story is routine. None of this incredible moment is watered down. Rather, perhaps our faith has been diluted? Perhaps our devotion has become so traditional that we don’t see how far we have strayed?
The wise still seek it; You?
There are many amazing examples of sacrifice mentioned throughout the birth of Christ and many expressions of supreme love. We can see an example of sacrifice in the wise men. We don’t know much about the wise men based on biblical records, but what we do know may profoundly challenge the state of our faith.
“Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, during the reign of King Herod. At that time some wise men from the eastern lands came to Jerusalem, asking: “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star rise from him and we have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2
“After this interview the Three Wise Men continued on their way. And the star that they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. She walked ahead of them and stopped at the place where the boy was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. When the time came to leave, they returned to their country by another route, because God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. Matthew 2:9-12
In today’s terms, these men would have been seen as “radicals.” They sacrificed a lot just to have the opportunity to worship Christ.
A. They sacrificed their TIME. These men were not from Bethlehem or Jerusalem, but from some lands to the east. Most historians believe they probably traveled between 800 and 900 miles to make the journey to visit Christ. This trip would not have been quick. It would have taken weeks, perhaps even months, for this journey to be completed.
And then I think about my life. How much time am I willing to sacrifice for Christ? Will I leave everything and follow His direction in my life? When I reflect on my daily habits, how much of my time do I spend pursuing Christ?
B. They sacrificed their REPUTATION. These were kings. And although many believe that they probably knew of Daniel’s prophecies and the prediction of the Messiah, they were willing to take a step of faith and follow a star to Bethlehem. That? Can you imagine that you are a magician and you leave everything to follow a star? I can only guess what others said or thought regarding his decision.
Would I be willing to risk my reputation to follow God’s direction in my life? Am I willing to appear radical in the eyes of men to fulfill the will of God? God may call us to do some radical things and our reputation may be in doubt in the eyes of the world. Will I still be obedient despite this?
C. They sacrificed their SAFETY. These wise men came to Herod to ask him about the birth of the Messiah. They left Herod’s presence with orders to return to him if they found this child. The wise men ignored Herod’s orders as they had been warned in a dream not to return to Herod. This was a choice that could have jeopardized their safety since they were going against Herod’s orders. They were willing to follow God and his plans above those of Herod.
Is my safety and physical well-being more important to me than following God’s plan for my life? Are there things that God is calling me to that I have not followed because they would alter the comfort and security of my current situation?
D. They sacrificed their GIFTS. The Three Wise Men came with gifts of incense, gold and myrrh. These were expensive gifts they were willing to give to God. They bowed down to worship the child and opened their treasure chests to present him with gifts.
Am I willing to give? Do I ever give until it hurts? What gifts has God given me to use in his kingdom?
These wise men sought God above all else. They sacrificed their time, reputation, security and gifts, all for their long-awaited King. Am I willing to continue seeking Christ with all my heart? Am I willing to sacrifice anything for the baby who was born in a manger, but died on a cross for my sins? In a world of comfortable Christianity, am I driven to seek God above all else and follow Him?
Written by Amy Carrico
Author of Blog How to make moments matter
