This is the third in a series of reflections on John 1 (excerpted from a previous post).
A man named John was sent from God. He came as a witness to testify concerning the light, so that through him everyone would believe in the light. He himself wasn’t the light, but his mission was to testify concerning the light. – John 1:6-8 (CEB)
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in the territory of Judea during the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem. They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him.” – Matthew 2:1-2 (CEB)
It seems appropriate that the magi followed a light to find the Light. Scholars argue whether it was actually a star, a comet, or some other heavenly light, but I think that misses the point. After all, we regular people call everything in the night sky a star (well, except for the moon). The reality is they saw something unusual and acted on it.
The magi were dedicated in their decision. They watched and followed for two to three years until they finally found their way to Jerusalem. During this time, I wonder what they expected when found where the star led. Were they surprised when they met with Herod and found out no one else seemed to have noticed?
The light came to his own people, and his own people didn’t welcome him. But those who did welcome him, those who believed in his name, he authorized to become God’s children, born not from blood nor from human desire or passion, but born from God. – John 1 :11-13 (CEB)
What is God calling you to notice this Advent season?
