Dave's Diary

Daily Reading: Matthew 2:1-12

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve, and all around the world worship will rise to the Lord Jesus. Jesus’ coming to the world in human flesh, and His life, death and resurrection have so deeply impacted people for the last 2000 years that all over the world He is loved, worshipped and adored. And there is something about His birth that draws people in, even if they do not yet acknowledge Him as King. Truth be told, He came for those who would love Him, but He also came for those who would resist. At the very end, His death was as much out of love for Pilate and the high priests as it was for Peter, James and John. And here, right at the beginning, His birth was as much for Herod (who sought to end His life) as it was for the magi (who sacrificed so much to bow down and worship Him).

With that in mind, please re-read the passage and reflect on what the magi’s visit reveals to you about the Lord Jesus. Then turn your reflection into a prayer of praise to Jesus.

Here is mine:

Jesus Christ, You are the King of the Cosmos whose incarnation was marked by the birth of at least one star. The Universe bows to worship You.

You are the King of Nations, at whose feet the magi from distant lands were led to worship, even though Your own people’s “king” was blind to Your coming.

You are the King of all kings, whether they bow to You in worship like the magi did, or refuse to worship, like Herod.

Jesus, in Your grace, You do not compel us to acknowledge and worship You as King; but I choose today to enthrone You as Lord of my life, and I pray for the grace to follow Your lead in every dcision, as the magi followed the star. They followed a star in the sky, but I choose to follow You, the Light of the World, the Son of God. Amen.