12 Days of God's Character: The Christmas StoryParaugs

Day 6: Walking Out Worship

Worship can be such a confusing thing - does it always involve music? How do we worship? When should worship occur?

Today, we examine the Magi (also known as “the wise men”) and dive in deep with their worship of the Messiah, our Savior Jesus. The star that the Magi saw is mentioned in a few prophecies throughout the Old Testament - however, the Magi aren’t exactly defined until Luke 2. Even then, their true identities are somewhat blurry with the only context being that they came from the East after seeing the “Star” (talked about in Isaiah). Nonetheless, Luke puts an incredible emphasis on their sole intent to come and worship the Savior of the World who had just been born. Upon seeing baby Jesus, the Magi “fell down and worshiped Him”, showing a complete and beautiful submission. Jesus was just a newborn, unable to even hold up His head in His completely human form - yet, He was worshiped as the King that He was, even then.

So, how then, do we worship with the same heart and soul? I had a pastor share a quote once that said, “Worship is our response to God’s revelation”. Worship never starts with us but always starts with the goodness of the Father revealing Himself to us. Just like the birth of Jesus was revealed through a star, we can see Christ through various things today like a phone call from a friend to the healing of a chronic illness. Or, perhaps, you have experienced God’s revelation not through feeling so much as the fact of His character throughout scripture. When we experience revelation, we can’t help but bow down in humble worship.

Humble worship. What a phrase. This is what sets apart the beauty of the Magi’s worshiping Jesus - they fell down with full humility. They didn’t question the strength of Jesus, the plan of God, or have their eyes focused on King Herod. They lived fully present, ready to worship the King of Kings.

May we do the same. Take a moment today and ask yourself which element of worship do you struggle with the most. Then, ask the Lord to help you grow in this area!!

1. Trusting in the provision of Jesus
2. Focusing on Christ and Christ alone
3. Seeing God’s revelation in ordinary life

Thank you, Lord. Amen.