After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was.
– Matthew 2:9
The wise men are Gentiles, outsiders to the covenants and promises of Israel, yet they are willing to undertake a long and costly journey to worship a king not their own. This journey likely spanned hundreds of miles, requiring significant resources, endurance, and resolve. In contrast to the scribes who would not walk a few miles, these foreigners cross vast distances because their hearts are inclined toward the King of kings. The star guides them, but it is their desire to worship that keeps them moving. Access to Christ is not determined by proximity, pedigree, or privilege, but by a heart willing to follow God’s leading.
Prayer
Lord, give me a heart that rejoices in your guidance and willingly follows where you lead. Teach me to seek Christ wherever he may be found. Amen.
Meditation
If the wise men were willing to travel hundreds of miles to worship Christ, what does my willingness—or unwillingness—to move, change, or sacrifice reveal about the true orientation of my heart toward him?