The Magi were most likely from Persia, modern-day Iran. They
were men who regularly engaged in a study of the stars. They were not Jewish
but were most likely aware of the popular belief of the Jewish people that a
king would be born who would save them.
These Magi were called by God to encounter the Savior of the
World. Interestingly, God used something very familiar to them as an instrument
of their calling: the stars. It was among their belief that when someone of
great importance was born, this birth was accompanied by a new star. So when
they saw this new, bright and brilliant star, they were filled with curiosity
and hope. One of the most significant aspects of this story is that they
responded. God called them through the use of a star, and they chose to follow
this sign, embarking on a long and arduous journey.
God often uses those things most familiar to us that are
part of our daily life to send forth His calling. Recall, for example, that
many of the Apostles were fishermen, and Jesus used their occupation to call
them, making them “fishers of men.” He especially used the miraculous catch of
fish to clearly indicate to them that they had a new calling.
In our own lives, God is constantly calling us to seek Him
out and worship Him. He will often use some of the most ordinary parts of our
lives to send forth that calling. How is He calling you? In what way is He
sending you a star to follow? Many times when God speaks, we ignore His voice.
We must learn from these Magi and diligently respond when He calls. We must not
hesitate and must seek to daily be attentive to the ways that God invites us to
deeper trust, surrender and worship.
Reflect, today, upon God’s call in your life. Are you
listening? Are you responding? Are you ready and willing to abandon all else in
life so as to serve His holy will? Seek Him, wait on Him and respond. Doing so
will be the best decision you ever make.
Lord, I love You and pray that I will be open to Your
guiding hand in my life. May I always be attentive to the countless ways that
You call to me each and every day. And may I always respond to You with all my
heart. Jesus, I trust in You.
