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A Mysterious JourneyMystery surrounds them. They have been called, “Wise Men,” “Magi,” and “Kings.” Chroniclers have speculated that they came from Arabia, Persia, or the area of ancient Babylon. It is believed by many that Jeremiah and Daniel referred to this caste of men in their Old Testament writings. Many consider them to have been religious leaders with an expertise in astronomy. Were there really three of these travelers? There may have been two or twenty-two. This also is a mystery as is the manner in which they traveled. We do know they began a journey to see “…one who has been born King of the Jews.” (Matthew 2:2) Their path was determined by a mysterious celestial object and they journeyed to the capital city of Jerusalem. Who would better know of the birth of the promised Messiah than government leaders? But King Herod was not only ignorant, he was threatened by a possible usurper to his position. Herod inquired of the religious leadership to determine the prophetic birthplace. The priests and the teachers of the law knew the answer and shared that answer but were unwilling to make the six mile trip to Bethlehem. Their indifference was as appalling as Herod’s ignorance and intentions. (See Matthew 2:3-12) The Magi traveled to Bethlehem to a house where the family of Jesus was now staying. They were not disappointed in what they found or in who they found. They fell down and worshipped the newborn King! They gave Him costly and appropriate gifts. Being warned by God in a dream, they did not return to Herod’s court to help him fulfill his evil intent, but traveled home by a different route. They were different men because the mystery of the Messiah was revealed in the person of Jesus.
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