Title: Following the Light of Christ
Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12, Matthew 3:13-17
Introduction:
The story of the visit of the Magi and the baptism of Jesus both point to the theme of following the light of Christ. In Matthew 2:1-12, we see the Magi following a star to find the newborn king, and in Matthew 3:13-17, we witness the baptism of Jesus, where the light of God’s presence is revealed. As adults, we can learn from these stories about what it means to follow the light of Christ in our own lives.
Background:
In Matthew 2:1-12, we read about the Magi, who were wise men from the East, who followed a star to find the newborn king of the Jews. They were led by the light of the star to the place where Jesus was born, and they worshiped him and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In Matthew 3:13-17, we see Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist, and as he comes up out of the water, the heavens open, and the Spirit of God descends like a dove and alights on him. Then a voice from heaven says, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
Lesson:
1. Following the Guiding Light: The Magi were guided by a star to find the newborn king. In our lives, we also need to be attentive to the guiding light of Christ. We should seek to be led by the Holy Spirit in our decisions and actions.
2. Worship and Surrender: The Magi worshiped Jesus and presented him with gifts. Similarly, when we follow the light of Christ, we should come before him in worship and surrender, offering our lives as a living sacrifice.
3. Baptism and Revelation: In Jesus’ baptism, the light of God’s presence is revealed. Through our own baptism, we are united with Christ and are called to reflect his light to the world. We should live in a way that reveals the light of Christ to others.
4. Embracing Our Identity: In the baptism of Jesus, God declares him as his beloved Son. As children of God, we are also called to embrace our identity as beloved by God and live in the light of that truth.
Conclusion:
Let us continue to follow the light of Christ in our lives, just as the Magi and Jesus did. May we be guided and led by the Holy Spirit, offer our lives in worship and surrender, and reflect the light of Christ to the world. As we do so, may we embrace our identity as beloved children of God and live in the fullness of his light.
