Matthew 2:1-12
Although the Bible doesn’t say there were three magi, one wise man per gift seems logical. Melchior, Balthasar and Caspar are the names traditionally given to the wise men who are remembered around the world at this time of Epiphany.
When we think about the Magi’s journey, we can only marvel at the complexities of the preparations and decisions made. Theirs was a process of reasoning and a desire to find the truth based on the knowledge they gained from their studies.
The shepherds would have been brought up with the Scriptures and the foretelling of a Messiah, and so they knew something of who they were waiting for, even though they had little warning when the event started to happen. The wise men, however, made their plans for their long journey to follow the star, thinking they were only looking for a king, not realising he was the Son of God. They had faith that the hassle, effort and sacrifice would all be worth it. They persevered, despite taking a wrong turn which led to Herod; but they hung on to their faith that the star would lead them to the truth, and so discounted the lies peddled by Herod.
They had to put aside any preconceived ideas about the King of the Jews they would encounter and accepted that they had found God in the form of a small child.
‘And they bowed down and worshipped him.’
(Matthew 2:11)
Imagine three intelligent, well-versed men kneeling in worship to this baby in a simple home, because it is where the star led them. No questioning, just acceptance, a natural response to the revelation of the King of kings!
What is our response to God’s revelation of Jesus the Saviour of mankind?
May we, at the beginning of this new year, be willing to respond to the revelation in a positive way, opening ourselves to his love and wanting to serve him to the best of our abilities.
REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Set the scene for the reflection by playing the song ‘In the face of a child’ in the background.
ONLINE GROUPS
Screen share the video.
Invite members to reflect on the questions from the Bible thought.
Give members a star shape and a pen. Give members the opportunity to reflect and write the first name of someone they know who is searching for God, or someone they want to develop a relationship with God. Display all the stars.
ONLINE GROUPS
Ask members to write on the star they cut out earlier.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We are reminded of the epic journey of the Magi – the great pilgrimage of faith – as they stepped into the unknown, persevering despite adversity, searching diligently until their quest was rewarded. Lord of all, we come seeking in our turn – seeking to learn from their experience, to worship the One to whom they knelt in homage, to understand what his birth, his life, his death and resurrection mean for us. Help us through this time together to discover a little more of what your revelation of Jesus has to say to us. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
