Unexpected Worshippers

The story of the magi (wise men) seeking the one 'born king of the Jews' is a remarkable witness to the surprising action of God. Their discerning faith, their diligent search, their heartfelt joy and their costly adoring worship all bear witness to the God of surprises. Familiarity with the story can render it boringly predictable: 'Of course wise men from the east came to worship the baby Jesus! Why wouldn't they?' In this way this amazing event is reduced to 'a Christmas decoration' rather than a moving, unexpected authentication of the arrival of the King of all kings – the One who was rightly perceived as a threat by the political and religious powers but not in the way they imagined!