Advent- December 24

Scientists believe that the star the Magi saw was an alignment of Jupiter, the moon, Saturn, and the sun in the constellation of Aries which occurred in 7 BC. The alignment of the stars and plants would have produced a great light. Jupiter was known as the planet of royalty, so the alignment of the planets with Jupiter would have caused the Magi to take note. From the time of Daniel, magicians (Magi), had been expecting a great king, so when the sign finally appeared, they sought to look for him.

For Adults:

Because of the great wealth they brought, they would have traveled with a great caravan. Crossing the desert with such a multitude and treasures would have taken about two years to arrive. Following the direction of the stars, they found Jesus, a young toddler at this point. When they saw him, they fell down and worshiped him. With great ceremony, they presented him with treasures fit for a king.

To worship means “one who falls prostrate on the ground in humble adoration.” The Magi paid attention and beheld a King worthy of their worship.

After they arrived, God spoke to them in a dream to go home by another route to avoid meeting Herod.

Because of the Messianic prophecies foretelling of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, Herod began his murder of any young boys age two to three in the area. But God had also warned Joseph to flee to Egypt. With the treasures of the Magi and the help of God, Jesus escaped Herod’s jealous slaughter and lived safely in the land of Egypt for three years, funded by the gifts of the wise men.

Luke used the word “behold” six times in the Christmas account. Matthew uses the word “behold” sixty-two times in his gospel account. To behold means “to pay attention to.”

2 Corinthians 3:18 says, “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”

We reflect what we pay attention to.

We are what we behold.

Behold, your King Jesus.