The Upper Room 6th January 2022 Daily Devotional | Thursday Message
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Day of the Kings
Douglas Wingert (Arizona, USA)
TODAY’S READING
Matthew 2:1-12
KEY VERSE: On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. – Matthew 2:11 (NIV)
The Upper Room 6th January 2022 Daily Devotional Message
On January 6th of each year, many of my neighbors across the border in Mexico celebrate “Día de los Reyes,” or “Day of the Kings.” This holiday is a celebration of the faithfulness of the magi and of the generous gifts they brought to the Christ child.
But who were these magi who were searching for the King of the Jews? Were they really kings or royalty from other kingdoms? Were they astrologers or nomads? Were there only three? Did they travel with a caravan for safety? And why is it that Matthew is the only one of the Gospels to tell this story of faith and hope?
What is clear to me is the deep faith of the magi, who were willing to leave their homes and travel far, believing the truth of a prophecy and following a moving star. When the star finally led them to Bethlehem, they humbly presented their gifts and worshiped the child, the promised Messiah.
So whether we celebrate January 6th as the ending of the 12 days of Christmas, or in recognition of the journey of the magi, or as Epiphany — the revealing of Christ’s birth to the world — it is a special time to celebrate faith, love, and hope in the promises of God.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift the magi gave to us — their story of faith. Strengthen our faith so that we also are willing to journey into the unknown to seek our Savior. In his name we pray. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Today I will be bold in seeking Christ Jesus.
PRAYER FOCUS
The people of Mexico