Devotional for the Day of Epiphany

Today marks the conclusion of our Advent/Christmas devotional. May you continue to be blessed on your journey of faith throughout the new year.

Matthew 2:1-2 (BRG Bible) “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His star in the east and are come to worship Him.’”

 

It had been a long journey for the Magi, likely Zoroastrian scholars from far-off Persia. Why had they made the risky and expensive effort just to come and pay homage to this foreign king? Despite what the carol says or what tradition explains, we just don’t know that much about them. How many were there? When did they arrive? What gifts did they present? We just don’t know very much. Still, we sing about them every year. We mimic their gifts to the Christ child through the giving of gifts to one another. Sometimes we travel far away to share in the seasonal festivities.

And still we wonder. What gifts would you give if you knew that this child would be your king? How far would you be willing to go just to worship Jesus? Has the journey these Advent and Christmas seasons been worth it? We don’t know what happened to the Magi after they returned home. We do know what happened to each of us after Christmas Day just a few days ago and in the days since. Will you still seek Him on the journey that is your walk of faith in 2024? Will you look for the king with me this year?

— Pastor Charles