These privileged magi could travel long distances, finance their trips, and bring rare gifts. They traveled a long way, and made quite a commotion when they asked about the king of the Jews being born. Through their humility and through their desire to answer a calling, they brought King Herod fear. The earthly system of power, control, and wealth was already beginning its death spiral. Herod tried to outsmart the magi by secretly ascertaining where the baby was born, and he hoped to end this threat as our systems of power typically do – through violence. Too often throughout history, when people of faith came up against the powers that be, this was and is the response of the systems and institutions.
The Gospel of Jesus offers us a new way. A way that invites all of us to be woven together through mutual care, love and respect. To be a beloved community where all of us are worthy because we are made in the Imago Dei. These magi left home and security, and gave up time and resources, to honor a baby king who is the Prince of Peace. May we commit ourselves to serving, loving, and acting justly in our world so all might see the good news that Jesus brings.
Gracious God, we pray that we may humbly see how all of us are woven together. May we refuse to fall into the false narrative that rejects the Imago Dei and sacred worth of all people. Give us the strength to be like the magi and honor you each day. Amen.
Ministry Team Student Leaders
Arise (United College Ministry in Northern Virginia)
Words for Waiting 