Today I'm continuing my series leading up to
Christmas called, "God Chose.." I've shared with you in past
posts how God chose Mary, Joseph, the stable, and the shepherds, and today I'm
going to share how God chose the wise men.
I thought I'd start by sharing a little bit
about what it really means when these men were referred to as "wise
men," also known as the "magi." These men were actually part of
a religion that focused on astrology and regarded that as a science. They
believed in magic as well; these men were not Jewish or followers of God
originally. So why did God chose them?
Here's the story told in Mathew 2:
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in
the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to
Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews?
For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When
Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and
assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them
where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of
Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:
“‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from
them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem,
saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him,
bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to
the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when
it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child
was. 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. And being
warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own
country by another way."
There's a
lot to talk about in regards to this story. First, it was a star that led
the wise men to Jesus. God used their religion to bring them to the Savior.
I think there's a lot of power in that. God can use anyone,
anything, or situation to bring us to Him. God is bigger.
The wise
men told King Herod, who was not at all pleased about this. See, many Jewish
people of the day assumed when the Savior would be born, he'd be an earthly
king, not a heavenly one. The last thing Herod wanted was someone to take his
throne.
When they
found Jesus (which was actually not the night he was born, it was probably when
he was a toddler; time isn't always noted when story of Jesus' birth is
shared), the wise men fell down and worshiped him. Although they had
their original beliefs in magic and astrology, they were able to recognize
the one true God and Savior. I feel like this shows the power that God
has to work in anyone's life.
When they
brought the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Gold is a symbol of kingship on earth: Jesus. Frankincense is a symbol of deity: God on earth, and myrrh is a symbol of death: Jesus' death on the cross. I'm not sure the wise men knew the symbolism behind their gifts, but I'm sure God did, and I think that's pretty cool.
The wise
men were changed because of Jesus, and I think that's why God chose them. It
shows the power he has to move in everyone's lives. No matter where they are,
what they've done, how they are living their lives, God can shine through and
change them, and you for the better.
On black Friday I picked up this camouflage sweater from Target for 40% off and I was super excited because I'd been wanting one, but couldn't seem to find what I wanted for a great price. I decided to pair it with my favorite black pants, boots and vest. This combo has definitely a go-to one this season.
On black Friday I picked up this camouflage sweater from Target for 40% off and I was super excited because I'd been wanting one, but couldn't seem to find what I wanted for a great price. I decided to pair it with my favorite black pants, boots and vest. This combo has definitely a go-to one this season.
Vest: Wet Seal similar
Sweater: Merona same
Pants: Mossimo same
Necklace: Sira Mara similar
Boots: Born similar
Linking up with:
I love how God used people who didn't even know Him to bring others to Christ. He still does this today(: You look lovely as always - love that sweater!!! Merry Christmas! Susan
ReplyDeleteI'd love to try camo, but haven't yet because I don't want to invest in something I am a little unsure of. That sweater is so cute though! I like how you glammed it up with your necklace!
ReplyDeleteI love this sweater! So cute & such a great price!
ReplyDeleteCute, cute outfit! You make camo look great!
ReplyDeleteIt's so wonderful how God brought such a contrast of humble shepherds and great wise men. Jesus is for all!
lovely necklace
ReplyDeletekisses
Love the mix of camo and this vest, very cute!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post! I love your camo! You inspired me to order a pair of camo leggings so that I can try out that trend!
ReplyDeleteAnother great post Ginny! You look great in this outfit, I really the camo with the statement necklace.
ReplyDeleteMarta
www.sweatersstripesandsweets.com
This has been a great series where I have learned a lot. I am loving all the olive military going on here. I need some camo in my life. That is a gorgeous sweater and I also love the necklace.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy the last week before XMas Ginny and Happy Holidays! <3 Ada.
I am so happy I can across your blog through the pleated poppy because I am in love with your blog name! Nothing sums up fashion better than, "My new FAVORITE outfit!" So cute and love your hunter green camo look!
ReplyDeleteChelsea
Ginger Side of Life
You look great Ginny and thanks for reminding us that Christ is the reason for the season!!! Wishing you a Merry Christmas too!!!
ReplyDeleteRebecca
www.redtagchiclosangeles.com