January 8, 2025
Epiphany - Part 3
Matthew 2:7-8
01/08/2025
7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and
ascertained from them what time the star had
appeared.
8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, ``Go and
search diligently for the child, and when you have
found him, bring me word, that I too may come and
worship him.'' (ESV)
Wise Men from the east came to Jerusalem seeking the King of
the Jews. Being astronomers and astrologers, they looked to the
heavens to discern what would be happening on earth. God, in His
wisdom, did not disappoint them, but showed them a clear sign
which pointed to the birth of the Messiah.
Eager to find the One foretold, the One of whom their
predecessors had heard about from Daniel and other Jewish
captives, the Magi traveled to Jerusalem. There, the scribes and
chief priests pointed them to the prophet Micah and his
prediction that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.
Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and
ascertained from them what time the star had appeared.
And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, ``Go and search
diligently for the child, and when you have found him,
bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.''
The Magi, who were not aware of local politics in Judea,
heard the request of Herod. This seemed a reasonable request.
When they heard where the Child was to be born, they left the
city, vowing to return with the good news.
May our Lord grant us the faith to seek the Child of
Bethlehem for our eternal blessing. Amen.