The Wise Men Controversy

There’s a wise men controversy.

While our manger scenes show the “three kings of orient” surrounding baby Jesus in swaddling clothes, in reality Jesus was probably a toddler by the time the kings arrived on the scene.

Knowing this, I’ve thought about removing the kings to have an historically accurate remembrance of that day.

I’ve considered creating my own manger scene with two-year-old Jesus hugging one of the wise men.

But then there’s the three wise men displayed in my office sans Mary, Joseph and the Christ child to remind me to always seek Jesus.

And that’s when I realized it doesn’t matter. It isn’t important if the nativity scene isn’t quite right.

It makes no difference whether it’s made of china or wood, large or small.

The most important thing is, like the wise men, we seek Jesus no matter what.

No matter the cost.

No matter the obstacles.

No matter the time.

Jesus had an adversary, King Herod, who was threatened by him. Perhaps you’ve experienced something like this. A jealous spirit. Someone who prefers you fail rather than succeed?

As the Magi were on their way to worship the Son of God, Herod said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”

In reality, Herod wanted to eliminate Jesus.

When the Magi finally arrived at toddler Jesus’ house, about two years after their journey began, they paid homage to the King of Kings and presented him with treasures. While our Bible translations say the Magi knelt before Jesus, my pastor provided new insight on this passage. He shared the Greek word used here also means to “fall down violently.” Despite their accolades and regalia, the wise men, in total humility, were on their faces, in reverence, before Jesus.

Regardless of our resumes, seeking Jesus requires humility.

When we enter his presence, like the wise men, we should bow or fall before him.

Let him set the agenda.

Lay our gifts before him.

As John the Baptist said, “He must increase but I must decrease” (John 3:30).

When it was time to say their goodbyes to the Savior of the world, the wise men were warned in a dream to take a different route home. Jealous King Herod would not win this one and neither will those who attempt to prevent us from seeking Jesus.

Jesus always provides the path to seek him.

He protects us from our enemies.

What are you searching for?

Hope?

Advice?

Love?

The Lord of Lords can provide all three when we seek him.

No matter the cost.

No matter the obstacles.

No matter the time.

“I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me” (Proverbs 8:17).