The Light of Joy

Matthew 2:1-12
By Harold Dinsmore, M.Div.
© 2007 Harold Dinsmore

               We find in this passage a story concerning the Magi.  The Magi were originally a religious cast among the Persians.  They were numerous enough to be regarded as one of the six tribes of Media.  When the Persians conquered the Medes, the Magi retained their influence in the new empire.

               The Wise Men of the nativity were thought to be, as some scholars believe, from Southern Arabia, while others claim the area of Persia is more likely.  A tradition of Israelite Messianic expectation may have survived in this region since the days of the Queen of Sheba, or as a result of the dispersion of the Jews when they were taken into captivity.

               Whatever the reason for their knowledge of the child to be born, the fact is they knew, and here they were, having traveled a long way to worship Him.

               There is also one more controversy concerning their arrival time.  Some authors believe they did not arrive until the child was around two years old, due to the fact of the slaughter of the children ordered by Herod in 2:16.  However, there is just as much evidence, in my opinion, as to the Magi’s arrival being on the night of Christ’s birth.

               Today we have lighted the candle of Joy.  Why joy?  Why the different color?  Why the change from somberness to exhilaration?  Well, we can even see this in the attitude of the Magi when they resumed their journey.  In verse 10, they had traveled to Jerusalem, following the star once again, “and when they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.”  They too were filled with the Joy of the Lord, for they were witness to the miracle of Christmas.  The Savior was born and they came to worship Him, having traveled an immensely long distance for this one occasion.