Matthew 2:1–12
The story and arrival of the wise men or mystical magi is only found in Matthews gospel. These men are celebrated in some churches on Epiphany or Three Kings Day, today January 6th. That is twelve days after Christmas.
This celebrations are mainly in Europe, particularly Spain and Latin America. Some have names for the wise men, Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar as the presenters of baby Jesus with symbolic gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
However, I am of the view that the wise men probably arrived in a huge number than three and at least 2 years after his birth. Clearly the child Jesus was at home when they arrived (v.11) and not in a manger, as Christmas cards would portray. Biblical narrative records, the shepherds found him in a manger (Luke 2:15-16).
However, my key thought is, the wise men, like us, had the promise of a King born in Bethlehem. First, lost, they went to Jerusalem. Secondly, they had to leave Jerusalem and head 5-6 miles South to Bethlehem. When they found the child, being warned, they did not go back to Jerusalem.
For all of us, the year 2023, holds promise from God. We read the promise and see the guiding star, however, we get caught up inquiring in places. And yet, like Herod’s elite they have no clue. Let’s look at this a bit more;
Firstly, Lost in “Jerusalem?”
It’s easy to be drawn to“Jerusalem”. The city glitz, glamour, royalty, pomp and splendor. The latest gossip is there.
With this in mind, surely, a new born King should be there. But no! Not even Herod’s secret service, knew about it.
A lesson, beware the “city” you feel drawn to in your pursuit of God’s given vision.
Additionally, beware of whom you seek to consult. Some, have no clue what you are talking about. As clueless as Herod was, he offered a suggestion for them to return to him. He wished to “worship” the same King.
Be aware, the clueless may produce acts hard to understand.
The only way forward is to Lose, “Jerusalem?” God is leading you. In 2023, few know where God is leading you Shepherds are among the few. As you enter the year 2023, like the wise men, you probably have to ask and answer yourself among the clueless. You may know better among the wise of Jerusalem.
And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,
And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Matthew 2:5-6
We are not told how long the wise men stayed in Jerusalem. However, when they left it, supernaturally a guidance was provided. My thought is, head out for divine guidance to be seen.
Your prophetic gifts must be delivered. Not in Jerusalem or before anyone else.
The gifts are so profound and symbolic, 1. Gold’s financial glow and divine providence. 2. Frankincense- pleasant, aromatic and intercessional drawing. 3. The bitter myrrh, warning of not only religious niceties but difficult times ahead also.
The last thing is, Leave out “Jerusalem.” After the presentation of gifts, Jerusalem was to be omitted on the trip going home. Of course, Herod was not amused neither will your confidants.
This year 2023, Follow Gods guidance as it is revealed to you. Leave out some obvious prominent places and people. You may be expecting too much from those who have no clue. Perhaps, leave out some guidance on good food, businesses, relationships and places to go. You will ruffle some feathers.
Enter 2023, looking at the star leading you to the promise. When you get there, your gifts will be come out with joy. When you presented your gifts, your next roadmap will be given. It may not include glitzy “Jerusalem and Herod.”
