For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 KJV

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judæa 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.
Matthew 2:1‭-‬2 KJV

God invited these “wise men” from a far-away land in the East, possibly Persia (present day Iran), to come and celebrate the birth of His Son, Jesus Christ. That would necessitate a journey of 800-900 miles! Wherever they came from, there would still have been a very long trip to be made. This explains why Matthew 2:11 says they brought their gifts to “the house” where the child was, rather than the place where He was born. It would have taken them some time to arrive. It would also be in agreement with the two years Herod allowed before sending his soldiers to try to kill the new King when the wise men did not return to him.

Traditionally, there are three wise men (magi), possibly because they brought three gifts, but Matthew records a plural number only. Were there three, two, or more? We do not know.

The Greek word for these men was “magoi”, from which we get our word, “magic”. They were astrologers and educated in the natural sciences and astronomy. From Babylonia? That would make sense, since they would have been exposed to (and gained some respect for) God and divine scripture during Israel’s captivity. (See Daniel 2.) The court astrologers were unable to tell King Nebuchadnezzar his dream and interpret it. The King had vowed to kill them all if they could not tell him the dream he had and what it meant. This, of course, was impossible for any human to do, but Daniel fell on his knees before God and received the answer, saving all their lives. King Nebuchadnezzar was greatly impressed with “Daniel’s God”, and ordered that He be honored.

God invited the magi to come and see, as He does all who seek Him (see John 1:39). They sacrificed their time, comfort, and wealth to eagerly respond, had the privilege of seeing the incarnated Christ, and went down in the annals of history as well!

And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
Matthew 2:11 KJV

Gold, recognizing Jesus’ Kingship. Frankincense symbolizing His Priesthood. And myrrh, used in embalming. He didn’t come to be served,, but to serve, and to give His life as the Lamb without blemish. Praise His holy name! 🙌 ✝️ ❤

What will we bring to the One Who is all that, and Savior and Friend as well? We bring our hearts and bend our wills to the King of kings, and Lord of Lords! What changes will that bring to us personally?

O Come, let us adore Him!