Matthew 2:1-11. In Matthew’s gospel, “strangers” from the East come to worship Jesus. Their presence in Jerusalem and even in the Biblical story is astounding! Since Babylon was the seat of ancient astronomical studies, most likely these magi were Babylonians.
Now, think of the ancient historical relationship between Jews and Babylonians. Half a century earlier, Babylon came over to Palestine and conquered the Kingdom of Judah. They completely destroyed the city of Jerusalem and the temple where people worshiped God. The majority of the Jewish population was forced to leave their homeland and walk the long journey to Babylon where they were forced to live.
Fast forward back to Matthew’s gospel. The One has come who will save us all, and it is Babylonian star gazing sages who notice a new star rising and attribute it to a new king being born to the Jews! It is Babylonian star gazing sages who make the trek across the dessert to Jerusalem to find the newborn king of the Jews. It is Babylonian star gazing sages who find the Christ child, bow down and worship, and present him treasures.
Why would God go to such great lengths to invite a caravan of star gazers to come and worship? Why would Creator God changes the pattern of the night sky so that a hand full of different, exotic, strange strangers might come and worship. Ah, and here’s the beauty of story.
God reaches out in a unique ways to some of the most unlikely people. Who would have thought Babylonians would be a part of the story of the Savior of the world? Don’t let this get lost on you. If God rearranged the night sky so that these sages might come to the Christ child, God will do the same for you too. Of this we can be sure: we all are invited. Let the gospel story be your “star” leading you to come and worship God with your whole life this year.
Cullowhee Baptist Church 
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