As we approach the incarnation and nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, many faces surround this blessed mystery. One of the prominent faces of Advent is the Magi, who were earnest in their search for the truth. We read about the Magi in the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 2.
The Magi came from the east to Jerusalem following a star seeking the Newborn King, Jesus Christ. When they had entered Jerusalem, they found Herod, who was king at the time, and asked “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” (Matthew 2:2). After Herod heard this, he was distraught and called the chief priest and asked where Jesus was born. The chief priest responded and said, “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’” (Matthew 2:5-6). After hearing this, Herod called for the wise men and sent them to Bethlehem and told them, “Go search diligently for the child, and when you have found Him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship Him” (Matthew 2:8). When they had found Jesus, they fell and worshipped Him and proceeded to give Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. When the Magi had fallen asleep that night, they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod but instead, take another route back to their country.
The three wise men, known as Magi, were scholars who studied the stars and heavens, seeking to understand the creation. They had known most of the stars in the sky, but when Christ was born, a new star appeared for the first time. Origen the Scholar states, “The star was not of any constellations existing in the sky that was made to be the star of the East. Rather, it was something of another order, appointed for this purpose and in the service of the knowledge of Jesus.” This star captured the attention of onlookers and urged them to follow it. Although the Magi were intelligent, the truth was not revealed to them. However, seeing the star, the Magi followed it, following Christ’s light. Thus, representing how God will guide those who seek Him. It is also important to note that the chief priests and the high priest did not know that the Messiah had been born or where he was, but instead referred back to prophecy. God only revealed Himself to the righteous and those who had a good heart who were seeking to worship Him.
During this Advent fast, we are reminded that although humanity, like the Magi, seeks truth in science or wealth, the absolute truth is found in our God and our Savior, Jesus Christ. The same light that guided the Magi to Christ’s manger is the same light that guides our faith. When we follow Christ’s light, we are also led to the truth and led to worship our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
References:
- Bible, ESV
- The Star of Bethlehem, His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef
- Catena Bible