Matthew 2:1-2 1
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,
2 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
As we countdown to Christmas with 13 days left, it’s important to take time daily to reflect on what Christmas really was intended to mean. It’s about the birth of Christ the messiah. Though the hustle and bustle of well intentioned plans may need to happen, take time to focus on Christ, and bring true meaning to your festal celebration.
In this scripture we see the Magi (wise men) pursuing Jesus from half way across the world, being led by a star, to come and worship the new born king. Christmas is about prioritizing Christ. Think about the effort it must have taken to put together such a trip. These men were truly wise for they set aside all their prior obligations, (which mind you would have been immense for they were influential in their world), and went to worship the king.
In the early church, in the first few centuries, our predecessors took time during the Christmas season to fast and reflect on the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. This was because they celebrated Epiphany with was shortly after Christmas. This feast, commemorates the appearance of the Magi as they visited Jesus. This season was also known as advent (or coming), for they longed for his coming. Not his first coming as a baby in a manger, but the second coming where he comes to take control of the world.
As you celebrate your season of Advent, prepare for Christmas as if Jesus is really coming back like the early Christians. Anticipate his coming through reflecting on one of our advent readings, take a moment with your family to discuss this devotion at the dinner table, or with a friend, and I trust you will be prepared for worship him as king of kings and lord of lords.
– Pastor Olu Jegede