Detecting Christmas December 22 Devotional

Matthew 2:10-12 | ¹⁰ When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. ¹¹ On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure-chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. ¹² And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

Where was the Messiah born? He was born into the hearts of the magi. They paid him “homage,” meaning they knelt and worshipped him. They gave him resources, which later paid for the family sojourn as refugees in Egypt. (Spices were like portable cash). They took their lives in their hands, and saved the newborn King, by defying Herod and sneaking home by an alternate route without reporting. The little King arrived in space and time but immediately began invading the lives of those who invited him in and acknowledged his authority.

Jesus keeps arriving! When did you last see someone come to faith and commitment?

Gracious God,

Thank you for the ongoing power of Christmas, of Jesus, to change hearts and lives. Thank you for everyone that honors you in worship, service, and witness. Amen.