Inspiring Spirit/Empowering Spirit

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 (New International Version)

I have traveled many miles and many places during my lifetime in search of pleasure. I have been to England, Ireland, Scotland, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and many more places, just to name a few. I was willing to be uncomfortable at times just to get to my destination. The truth is, for many years, I was unwilling to travel far or experience discomfort in another very important journey – the journey to find and worship Jesus.

In Matthew 2:1-2 we see that the Magi passionately sought the truth over a long journey from the east. Church historians suggest they traveled perhaps a thousand miles over many days, perhaps even years. It was most likely an expensive and difficult journey but apparently their desire to discover this “king” who was about to come into the world was stronger than any discomfort they might experience. They were quite clear about their intentions to find and worship this newborn king.

It took me many years and many life lessons before I intentionally made the choice to travel any distance, at any price, through discomfort and even sorrow to find our King of Kings. Jesus came to this earth to walk a difficult journey for us and He walked to His death in order that we may live eternally in joy. As we celebrate our King’s birth, let us not forget to honor His journey. May the Holy Spirit inspire and empower each of us to spend our lifetime searching for the newborn King, Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Father God, may the wisdom of the Magi live in our hearts and guide us to our Savior and King, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Mary Pat – Cohort 4: Inspire. Ignite. Invite.

Shiloh Lutheran Church, Walton, IN