Epiphany – Part 3

January 8, 2025

Broadcast

                           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.