Daily Bible Reading, January 2023 - God’s Saving Word: Unity in Christ JesusНамуна

January 6

Introduction

Today is observed as the Feast of the Epiphany, the day when the Christian church celebrates the arrival of visitors from the East to meet the infant Jesus. When the visitors arrive in Jerusalem, King Herod’s advisers quote the prophet Micah (5:2) regarding the birthplace of the child. Herod gets upset and asks the visitors to let him know the location. They meet the child, worship him, and give him gifts. Then they return home another way, without telling Herod where the child is.

Scripture Reading

Matthew 2:1-12

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 2:6

“‘Bethlehem in the land of Judah, you are by no means the least of the leading cities of Judah; for from you will come a leader who will guide my people Israel.’”

Reflect

These visitors, who are identified in Greek as magoi, may have been astrologers who came from land to the east. Like others who studied the stars, they believed that when a great leader was about to be born, a new star would appear in the sky (see Numbers 24:17). What did they do when they found the place where Jesus was? Why did they not return to Herod? How did you observe the birth of Jesus this Christmas season?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you are my king and Lord of my life, and I worship you. Just as a star guided those who searched for you, lead me each day in faith. I offer you my humble heart and praise your holy name. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 2:13-23: Joseph, Mary, and the child Jesus escape to Egypt.