HOST: Michael Whitworth
Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:1-12
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “ ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’ ” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way."
One of the things that stands out to me in this story is the trouble, expense, and determination with which the wise men came to find and worship Jesus. They made the long, difficult journey to see Him, they brought expensive gifts to offer Him, they searched for Him until they found Him, and they did all this for the opportunity to worship Him (v. 2). Too often, we take our worship for granted. It is easy, comfortable, convenient, and without risk. We have much to be thankful for. Yet we often find it burdensome, tiresome, and unrewarding. One of the great lessons of this story, and of the New Testament altogether, is that Jesus is worthy of our praise and worship. He deserves the very best that we have to offer Him. Let us rejoice in the opportunity to give Him the glory due His name and never take for granted the wonderful blessing of worship!
What blessings or rewards do you gain from worshipping God?
Don’t forget to pray and have a great day!