Epiphany

Commentary

Matthew 2: 1 – 12

What and Who Point Us to the “King of the Jews”

From this Gospel passage, we can list the people and things that help the magi in their search for the Savior:

1. “We saw his star … and have come…”:  the magi’s longing for God, their studies and search

2. The star: things in nature and creation that point us to God

3. King Herod, and the chief priests and the scribes of the people, and those the magi encounter in Jerusalem: other people, including those who oppose or find the Messiah/God a threat, and those who do not believe in God.

4. Scriptures

5. Conversation with others, including fellow searchers (the other magi) and others who help us and walk with us to Jesus

6. Mary and Joseph (though Joseph is not mentioned explicitly in this passage, we can presume that he’s there): Mary and the holy people who lead us to God

7: A Dream: direct signs from God, both natural and supernatural ones

In my life, who and what lead me to God?
And do I allow God to use me to lead others to God?