Three Lessons from the Wise Men on Finding Christmas Joy

“On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11 (NIV)

Christmas is busy and active.  We have now had four parties at our house so far this month.  They have been fun and great and hectic.  But the greatest aspect of this time of year is the original Christmas message: “Good tidings of great joy.”  The story of Jesus born as a baby in a manger is what truly brings us joy and satisfies our heart.  

The Wise Men give us several lessons for finding true joy in our heart.    

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT HOW MUCH YOU HAVE       

The Wise Men were really wealthy.  They might have been kings but they had enough to set out on long journeys, get access to powerful political leaders, and to give expensive gifts.  All I know is that on Christmas cards these guys are dressed really nice, with a whole caravan traveling a long time.   

But despite their possessions, they were still seeking for something money could not buy.  They traveled through a barren desert in search of something that would satisfy their souls.  

Nothing has changed.  

There will be lots of gifts exchanged, parties attended, food cooked and by December 26th many will be empty and depressed. Our world does not ultimately fill us.   

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT POWER AND INFLUENCE

The Wise Men were powerful individuals with lots of influence.  “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the One who has been born king of the Jews? We saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him.”’ Matthew 2:1-2 (NIV).  The whole town of Jerusalem knew when they came to town.  Then they are meeting with religious leaders, political leaders–they had a high place in society wherever they went.  But again, that wasn’t enough.  They were looking for the King of the Jews.  

Whatever power and influence we have is a gift from God and can be used for Him.  But neither one satisfy the heart.  But with Jesus we find eternal hope in our heart.  Nothing compares to that.  

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS

The Wise Men were religious people.  They were leaders and were called “Wise Men” because they knew and followed the secrets of the mystery religions of the Orient.  People of all types came to them seeking answers to the questions of life.      

But in spite of their religion, these men had empty hearts and empty souls.  

They traveled from home on this mission, trudging through the barren desert for up to two years following the star.  Then they came to Jesus.  Their journey ended in Bethlehem where they found real joy.  Their wealth, power, influence, and traditions were not enough; there, they found the Prince of Peace.  

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Can you relate to the Wise Men?  Obviously, there’s not much frankincense, or camels, or royal robes in your life–but with what you do have, are you weary in heart this Christmas?  Are you missing joy?

The Wise Men 2000 years ago were willing to leave everything to try to find the King.

Are you willing to go all in and find and follow Jesus?  There are good tidings of great joy!  For unto you this day is born in the city of David a Savior who is Christ Jesus the Lord.