The Work of the Light

It is interesting to read about the Magi, aka - the three kings, or three wise men. However you know them, they are only mentioned briefly in scripture, and are memorable characters in the story of the birth of Christ anyway.

Arise, shine, for your light has come,

    and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.

These three men were drawn by the light. There is safety in the light, a clear path is opened before us when we walk into the light. So much of what we deal with is cloaked in darkness; like a bug to a light-bulb in the evening, we are drawn in to feel the warmth of the light and we sense the security offered. If you ever stumbled about in the dark, you know how comforting it is when someone shines a light. Fear of falling passes and you can walk forward with confidence.

See, darkness covers the earth

    and thick darkness is over the peoples,

but the Lord rises upon you

    and his glory appears over you.

Jesus was born in a stable, a cave-like dwelling, and He lit up the room. The moment of His birth changed everything. Light replaced darkness. The cold and dreary setting of a dank stable was immediately transformed by His light.

Nations will come to your light,

    and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

The Magi are touched by the sight of Jesus and they bow down and worship, offering precious gifts to the baby. A good lesson for each of us as we experience all that the LIGHT accomplishes in our lives.

Isaiah 60:1-5