“…Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2).
A picture is worth a thousand words.
The “Christmas picture” is a mundane/common picture: it represents a normal life event. A baby being born is a normal life event…it happens/occurs every minute (as I write). At the same time, every birth is a miracle – a new person becomes aware of God’s creation.
Not all babies are born in well-equipped hospital rooms with medical staff in assistance; not all babies are born in big and cozy homes.
Joseph and Mary travelling to Bethlehem; Mary giving birth to Jesus in a stable; shepherds coming to visit…that could have happened to any family at that time.
What then, makes the birth of Jesus special? Why is the Christmas picture that we are familiar with, special?
Let me suggest three reasons. The Christmas picture is special because of:
-its background (John 1:1-12; the Promise (Genesis); the Prophecies) – all point to a divine plan…out of this world origin;
-its pre-Christmas events (the Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38); the Clarification (Matthew 1:20, 21); the Good News for all the people);
-its post-Christmas events: The visit of the wise men (Matthew 2:1-12).
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem…” (Matt. 2:1).
The visit of the wise men brings into forefront the fact that the baby born in Bethlehem is a king. They were searching for the one “who has been born king” – a strong contrast to any other kings (none of them have been “born” kings). As such He is worthy of worship.
Having a complete “picture of Christmas”, let us enter this year with the right approach/attitude: worshipping the King. Praised be His name! Have a worship-full year!