Wise Men Still Seek Him (4)

What is an Epiphany? Cambridge Dictionary “a moment when you suddenly feel that you understand, or suddenly become conscious of, something that is very important to you.” I would add “Aha moment”

John Milton, "Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world."

I. Who were these Star Gazers

A. They Were Seekers

It is estimated that these from the East traveled 400-700 miles, at least a month, maybe two to reach their destination following only a Star.” Much like those in the Wilderness who followed a “pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.” Exodus 13

Charles Stanley “ He often meets us on our own pursuit. You see, the greatness of God is the pursuit is worth it. He adapts His guidance to our needs. Through your own seeking and serving, you become part of the heavenly symphony that gives passionate praise to the Savior.

II. They were Scholars

Micah 5:2“‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

The Magi would have become familiar with Balaam’s prophecy, “A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel” (Num. 24:17).

Psalm 72:11 “All kings will bow down to him.”

One day all the world will bow down to the King of Kings and Lord of the Lords, Zechariah 14:9 says “ And the Lord will be king over all the earth. On that day the Lord will be one and his name one.

They were those who fulfilled Prophecy ”Philippians 2:10 ESV So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

Keep studying the scriptures, keep doing the things that build your faith in Jesus Christ and then notice the wise choices you are naturally drawn to make — Russell M. Nelson

III. They Sought a King, but found a Family. not a Potentate, not a tyrant, not a dictator, not a political guru.

A. Not where they expected it, The King of Kings was not in the capital of Jerusalem; but in a hamlet of the “House of Bread” in Bethlehem, with what they had in their own hands, Gold for Royalty, Frankensence for Worship, Sweet Myrrh A Gift for a Priest, for a Sacrifice. For they gave gifts to a Family For the fulfillment of Prophecy.

Micahel Green The Bible Speaks Today says “ I find the faith of the Magi, their insight, their wholehearted search, their undaunted study of the stars, and their adoring worship, utterly amazing. It is one of the many surprises in the Gospel. But then God is the God of surprises.”

Are we ready to acknowledge Jesus’ presence in all the details of our lives, or do our own desires and ambitions cause us to overlook his influence as was Herod’s issue?

Ruth Rettig tells the story of having gone through unsuccessful cancer surgery and following up with chemo in Houston,… On one of the trips she heard the Lord say “ Plan a Pagent for your Grandkids.” She enlisted her husband to make the star in the East and the shepherd's crooks in his workshop. Finally, the holiday arrived dishes were done, and leftovers were put away she handed out the costumes and printed instructions, and from the gospels, she share the historic story. When everyone was ready, she began to read the story from the announcement of the angel to Mary to the arrival of the wise men. And as they laid their gifts at the foot of the manger, they sang "Silent Night", 'Away in a Manger" and then "Joy to the World." And as the last notes hung in the air, no one could move for they all felt God's warm presence in that cold, dark barn.

And then she writes, "And in that closeness...I'd left my fear behind. My soul was light, a newborn light that God had been leading me to for 6 months. It was the radiance of the manger, a radiance I helped God create. So you see, if you're stricken by illness or misfortune, (in other words, if life doesn't make sense) find something worthwhile to do (for God) and then do it...Don't be afraid. Go!"