Matthew 2:10-11 (ESV) — When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 

We often hear the idea that God made us to worship. The statement’s intention is correct, but it doesn’t capture the whole truth. God did not create us to worship, He created us as worshipers. Worship is not something that we turn off and on, so that sometimes we are worshiping and other times not. Worship is not an aspect of our being, but the essence of our being as God’s image bearers. All of life is ceaseless worship.

We live in a continuous state of worship because God made us as worshiping creatures. Nobody teaches us to worship, it’s the essence of who we are. Atheists, agnostics, Christians, and everyone in between are unceasing worshipers. The issue is not about knowing how to worship, it is about knowing who and what to worship. The object of our worship matters.

In our passage today, Matthew tells us of the Magi’s visit of Jesus from either Persia or Arabia to worship Jesus (Matthew 2:1). Magi studied the stars. They were experts in astronomy, philosophy, and served as priests. They followed a star to the place where the baby Jesus stayed with Joseph and Mary. These foreigners came bearing gifts for the king, the true King, worthy of the worship of all people, from all nations, at all times. They faced danger to bring worship to him. Their perseverance should fuel our hearts to worship Christ at all costs, despite all barriers. 

The fatigue of an Eastern traveler was far greater than we can understand. The time such a journey occupied was great. The dangers were many. But none of these things deterred them. There were great discomforts and inconveniences, but none of these things derailed their aim to worship the King. Their commitment and perseverance serve as a worthy example for us. Distance did not keep them from seeking Jesus, and each of us should pursue Him with equal fervor today.

When they reached the house they rejoiced with great joy. The reality hit them that they were meeting the King of kings, and they erupted in rejoicing with exceeding joy. The Magi fell down and worshiped. They offered their gifts to Jesus. Their actions teach us about worship. True worshipers delight in worshiping Jesus. When love for Christ abounds, we give not only our words or songs, but our possessions and treasures as well. Worthy and acceptable worship of Jesus comprises giving our lives and our gifts to him.

Questions for Reflection:

• What does the worship of the Magi (Gentiles) teach us about the kingship of Jesus? How are they a foreshadow of things to come?
• How frequently do we make excuses about things that prevent us from worshiping as we should?
• Why is it important to note the gifts the Magi brought to Jesus? How should we view giving as a part of our worship?

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