The Gift of the Magi

Ephesians 3:6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.

This season, the story of the Magi might have unfolded again across a few outdoor theaters or on-line venues starring children wrapped in Dad’s robes, top-heavy with elaborate crowns. They would have felt the solemn weight of their journey, and acted accordingly. We smile a sentimental smile, but how often do we consider the gift of the Magi to us? And what if that gift is more valuable than even gold, frankincense, and myrrh?

Among stories of the season, the Magi’s journey from the East stands out – they are an oddity, these pagan foreigners, wealthy and worldly-wise in a story laden with humble circumstance and characters. Where are the rich and wise leaders of the synagogue who only need to come a few miles? And why doesn’t God speak to them through starlight?

The Magi’s gift to us is a bold reminder that the birth of Christ is for everyone. As Peter said to a group of early Jewish and Gentile Christians, “Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people” (1 Peter 2:10). Jesus’ birth signaled the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant to bless all the nations of the earth (Gen. 12:1–3), and strangers like us are invited to the celebration.

Giver of good gifts, thank you for the gift of the Magi to me – I once was a stranger too, but now welcomed to the celebration as a beloved child of yours.