Angels, Shepherds and Wise Men, pt. 3

Another group who were invited to the incarnation of the Son of God were the Magi - traditionally referred to as "Wise men." What is most interesting about this group is that they were, quite simply, astrologers. Now we all know that there is no truth to Astrology. The Stars and Planets have no control over the direction of our lives by their place in the sky. And yet, God used the "false knowledge" of these astrologers to let them know that the King of the Jews had been born. How could God do that? Doesn't He care about truth? Of course, the answer is yes, He does care about truth. But He also knows everything about us, and I suspect that if He had to wait until we got it all right, He would never be able to communicate with us. So, with the Magi, as with us, He spoke to them in terms they would understand - and He did communicate truth to them through this false methodology - the King of the Jews was born! And notice their reaction. Being wealthy, they brought expensive gifts. That is appropriate. I would note, by the way, that almost every American is wealthy by historical standards. Their gifts speak much more loudly to what we ought to do. And then, they did something that the other two groups did - they bore witness of what God had done. Perhaps their example is the most instructive of all for us today. Gifts to God and a witness to others. Not a bad plan for Christmas.

Pastor Ken