Let There Be Joy - Day 21
A Change in Position and in Prominence
The Magi fell on their faces and worshiped Jesus. This was full-blown, dynamic heart worship and not mere lip service in the manner of King Herod. King Herod “said” that he wanted to worship the King of the Jews but it was lip service alone that was his intention. While King Herod spoke of worship, it was murder that was in his ugly heart.
These learned and respected men, the Magi, who had possibly traveled as far as 800 or 900 miles to find the new born King, fell on their faces when in His dear presence. Jesus was a baby, probably under 2 years old, when they arrived and yet still they fell down in wonder and in worship. While Jesus was talking baby talk and babbling in a language only his mother could understand, these men who were known for solving the mysteries of the ages, lay prostrate in His eternal presence.
True worship always entails a change of position and a change in prominence. In the presence of the Holy Child, these men cared not for tradition or liturgy. They only knew that this little bit of a Boy was worthy to be worshiped and so they fell at His baby feet in heartfelt praise.
Will you fall on your face this Christmas in the presence of Jesus? True worship always involves joy! These wise men had their academic world rocked with the joy that was found in the presence of Jesus Christ. They had changed their academic regalia for a garment of praise.
Will you let go of your very human, emotional make-up and allow the joy of His presence to infiltrate all of the corners of your world?
True worship always involves a giving away of something valuable. The Magi had brought treasures to the tiny King and His humble family. What will you bring of value to Jesus this Christmas? The Magi gave gifts fit for a King and what we offer Him can be no less.
Worship is the meeting place of God and humanity. It is the moment when humanity falls on its face in joy!
The mistake that many of us make is that we are distracted by the “magic” of the season when what is actually occurring is the miraculous. The miracle of Christmas is just one choice away. Will you mistakenly yearn for snow, gifts and family? Or will you lift your eyes to the miracle of Christmas?
You are loved so much … that a miracle has happened! It is a miracle that divinity would be joined with our humanity! It is a bona fide miracle that heaven would sing into our souls! It is a miracle of heavenly proportions that where there was confusion and conflict and sin … now there is joy and peace!
Bible Reading: (click on Bible verse to open in reader)
Let There Be Joy In Me:
What item of value can you give to Jesus this year? Is it your time? Is it a heartfelt gift to someone who is in need? Is it the gift of encouragement?
Make a list of three people who need your friendship this year and then make arrangements to spend time with them over the holiday season.
If this devotional has been an encouragement to you, would you consider giving a year-end gift to Just Joy! Ministries this Christmas season?
