A Christmas Primer: Lesson 3, Rejoice? or Reject?

The reactions recorded in the Gospels to the news that the time for the appearance of the long-awaited Messiah had arrived tell us much about the meaning of Christmas. They fall out in one of two ways: joy or dread. There is no middle ground. The strength of the responses suggests that the people involved knew what was at stake. The coming of the King meant that the status quo could no longer stand. For some, that prospect was thrilling; for others, deeply troubling. 

Though the implications of the advent of the Messiah have been layered over with all manner of cultural and religious practices, to the extent that many are not even aware of his arrival let alone the implications of his coming, the initial reactions remain appropriate. His name is Jesus, a name given to him because he came to save people from their sins. This salvation is not just to release people from the futility they might feel about their lives, but to provide them with a righteousness that will allow them to stand on the Day of Judgment. Without that righteousness no one will be able to bear the scrutiny of the holy judge. And the subsequent sentencing will be devastating. That is why the response to the coming of Jesus is just as vital today as when the Messianic age dawned.

Of all the people who rejoiced at the news, Mary is central and most compelling. Though a young woman (she is believed to have been in her teens), she exhibits a mature knowledge of Scripture, a discerning spirit, a humble heart, and extraordinary faith. At every turn she responds with a readiness to bear the cross laid upon her. “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord . . .” She will receive a great reward on that Day.

On the other hand, Herod is the prime example of those who felt threatened. Firmly ensconced as the ruler of a small patch of the Roman Empire, he desired to remain such, even if it meant killing members of his own family. Upon hearing of the Messiah’s birth, his only thought was to destroy him. He will have much to answer for on that Day.

The Messiah has come. As Simeon prophesied, he is “appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed.” This was fulfilled then, and continues to be now. But it’s ultimate fulfillment will come on the Day when all will stand before him and be compelled to declare him King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Epiphany

The magi were men who studied the stars, poured over ancient manuscripts, and interpreted dreams. They were seers who were influential figures in their own cultures. While they were not kings (popular misconception, and there might have been more than three), they served kings. It's not inappropriate, however, to refer to them as wise men, as they represented the wisdom of their people. Additionally, they were Gentiles, non-Jews. These two facts are important for us to appreciate.

In his telling of the events it appears that Matthew wants his readers to understand the presence of the magi as signaling primarily two things. The first is the superiority and truthfulness of God’s wisdom to any other supposed wisdom. These men had come to some conclusions as a result of their research. Their likely familiarity with Hebrew writings, such as Psalm 72, led them to look for the coming of the one who would usher in a reign of universal peace and prosperity. And when they saw the star rise that heralded his birth they sought him out to pay him homage (wise men, indeed!). When they bow before him, it's as if they are laying down all of the world's wisdom at his feet. The second is the long-prophesied inclusion of Gentiles among those who benefit from the coming of the Messiah. From the very beginning, the coming of the promised one was “good news of a great joy . . . for all the people.” Salvation is not just for the Jews but for all who place their hopes in the one who was born of the virgin. 

Is it any wonder that when the magi entered the house “they fell down and worshiped him” and “offered him gifts”? Whether they were fully cognizant of what the coming of this child meant, their actions were appropriate. He was the King of Kings, the Savior of the World.