Come To Worship

Do you enjoy the beauty of the night sky? I like to watch the sunset and then quietly observe the night sky as the moon and stars begin to appear. God’s creation is marvelous. 

What did the sky look like when an unusual star appeared on that glorious night? The wise men carefully watched the celestial bodies through the seasons and years. But they knew something was different. These travelers readied their caravan and came in search of a new king. They arrived in Jerusalem and went directly to the courts of King Herod. 

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “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 2:1-2

Where was this baby born? Herod summoned the religious leaders to his court. They searched the Hebrew Scriptures and found the words of the prophet, Micah.  

But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.

-Micah 5:2

The king was greatly troubled, and all those around him were concerned. Herod sent the wise men to Bethlehem and requested they return and tell him where they found the child. He was already plotting to destroy this young boy. 

The wise men were filled with great joy when once again, the star appeared, and they followed it to Bethlehem. When the caravan reached the house, they bowed before the child in worship and presented their expensive gifts to him. 

We can only imagine the thoughts and emotions flooding the hearts and minds of Mary and Joseph. Not just average men but rather a group of scholars and learned men who came from the East bringing extravagant and expensive gifts. These gifts remind us Jesus was born King and is worthy of our worship. What an event! 

However, because of Herod’s jealousy and rage, a tragedy occurs in Bethlehem. He ordered the slaughter of many young boys, innocent babies, and toddlers. Families were caught in deep grief and suffering. Their world was turned upside down!

HEAD TO HEART 

Wise people come to worship the Lord, even amid dark days, hard times, confusion, deception, and suffering. Friends, we will experience joy and pleasure in this life, yet we will also face struggles, pain, and hardship. God is our hope, and we must turn to Him. 

Father, fill our hearts with great expectation and joy for the new year ahead. Strengthen and comfort us when we face trials and difficult times. Each day, may we come to worship the Lord. 

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night.

-Psalm 92:1-2

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